Episode 475 - What Aging Athletes Can Teach Us About Singing

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores what singers can learn from the way modern athletes approach aging, recovery, and long-term performance. He explains why older singers need more intentional practice, better recovery, and smarter daily habits rather than...

Episode 474 - The Symptom is Not the Cause with Jeremy Ryan Mossman

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John speaks with innovative vocal educator Jeremy Ryan Mossman about why vocal problems are often symptoms of deeper patterns in the body, nervous system, and overall coordination. Drawing from movement science, bodywork, and voice tr...

Episode 473 - The Mind Science of Vocal Breakthroughs

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores new research on how the brain learns and why certain vocal moments suddenly “click.” He explains how attention, timing, and meaningful repetition may shape the brain’s ability to lock in new coordinations and creat...

Episode 472 - Sing Anyway with Linor Oren

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John speaks with vocal coach, choir director, and former opera and music theater performer about the fear, shame, and self-doubt that stop so many people from singing. Drawing from her work with hundreds of adult singers and her own j...

Episode 471 - Vocal Fold Geometry, and the Science of Mix

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John breaks down the science behind mix and explains how vocal fold geometry and airflow work together to create smooth transitions. He explains why cracks, strain, or inconsistency often come from a mismatch in coordination rather th...

Episode 470 - Voice Teaching’s Language Problem

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores how the language we use to teach singing can sometimes create confusion instead of clarity. He explains how vocal models evolve over time and why problems arise when imagery is mistaken for anatomy or when teachers argue...

Episode 469 - The Right Kind of Imagery: Why Most Vocal Imagery Fails and What Actually Works

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores why some vocal imagery works while other common cues fall flat. He explains how kinesthetic imagery, based on real physical sensation, can strengthen the brain pathways that control singing. Start feeling your way throug...

Episode 468 - Singing as Signal Flow: Stop Singing Words and Start Singing Sound

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explains why thinking in words can make phrasing feel choppy and disconnected, and shows how shifting your focus to a continuous signal flow creates smoother, more efficient singing. Let the sound carry you from note to note and ...

Episode 467 - The Brain-Voice Speed Gap, Part 2: Six Pathways to Rewire Your Voice at Any Age

In this episode, John continues the discussion of the brain-voice speed gap, and explains six practical ways to help your brain and voice work together more efficiently. When you combine these elements, you give your brain the stimulation it needs to adapt and improve, no matter ...

Episode 466 - The Brain-Voice Speed Gap, Part 1: Why Your Voice Is Aging Where You Don’t Expect

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores a surprising reason the voice can feel different with age. He explains how changes in the brain and nervous system affect the speed and precision of the signals that control your voice. The encouraging news is that the b...