Intelligent Vocalist Podcast

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 ...

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 ...

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...

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John talks about phonation threshold pressure, or PTP, and explains why it may be the hidden factor behind days when your voice feels heavy, effortful, or unpredictable. He breaks down what raises PTP, especially in the aging voice, a...

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John looks at the rise of AI-generated vocal advice and why so much of it is misleading, fear-driven, or simply wrong. He explains how slick presentation and absolute claims can create confusion and anxiety, especially around vocal he...

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explains why good moments in practice can sometimes fail to stick, not because of talent or effort, but because we miss what created them. He introduces a simple target-based practice loop that replaces vague goals and self judgme...