Writing About Creativity, Music, Self-Doubt, and the Path Forward
Paper Thin: The Story Behind My First Co-Write With John Riziki
The song “Paper Thin” started with a guitar, a few chords, and a recording device I almost forgot to turn on. Here's the story of writing my first song with John Riziki, and the question that cracked it wide open.
All Music Happens Inside the Head: A Conversation with JD Walter
I sat down with jazz vocalist JD Walter to talk about creativity, intention, and the night everything went wrong onstage and somehow became the best show of his life.
Haystack Grew Up: Two Cities, One Big Year for This Little Festival
Last summer, a brand new festival launched in North Bend with one ambitious idea: fill a small town with live music across 17 venues in a single night. It worked. So this year, Haystack is growing. In 2026, there are two festivals, two cities, and a whole lot more hope.
Interview with Drummer KJ Sawka: Finishing Music, Supportive Systems, and Coaching Artists
Drumming phenom KJ Sawka is in the gym before most people are awake and still gets to his studio by 7AM. I've known KJ since the nineties, when we were both on the Seattle drum scene. What I didn't know until recently is that we've both ended up in the same place: coaching other artists through the creative process.
100 Songs or Bust: A Songwriter’s Journey
I’ve now released 21 songs toward my 100 Songs or Bust goal. What started in 2023 with just three tracks has grown into a steady flow—7 songs in 2024 and even more in 2025 (including a couple still to come). Each release has been its own snapshot of where I was in that moment, from grief and doubt to love, irony, and collaboration.
How Steve Nalepa is Futureproofing Music—One Artist at a Time
At Futureproof Music School, Steve Nalepa and his team aren’t selling shortcuts or trends—they’re offering mentorship. The school helps artists learn what they truly need to create with confidence, find their intention, and follow their musical dreams.
Rediscovering the Magic of Music in Community Spaces
Mosaic MI blends open mic energy with the intimacy of a songwriting circle. Whether you’re performing or just listening, this welcoming space invites connection, creativity, and community through the shared experience of music.
The Compost Playlist: A Simple Ritual for Rediscovering Lost Songs
Got a hard drive full of half-finished songs? They’re not failures—they’re compost. Try this simple 3-step ritual to revisit your old demos with fresh ears. You might find your next song growing from the scraps. Includes a story, tips, and inspiration from Brian Eno.
The Talent Trap: How I Learned to Choose My Development Areas and Be OK with Boring Practice Routines
The Talent Trap: Embracing Boredom for Mastery
We often admire the talent of our favorite artists and athletes, but behind every performance lies hours of slow, repetitive practice. In this post, I share my journey as a songwriter and musician, learning how to love the grind of practice and the power of small, daily improvements. With insights from my mentor Stanton Moore, I explore how going slow and embracing boredom can unlock true mastery. Read on to learn how focusing on 1% progress a day can transform your skills.