In this episode, John shares 10 things he wishes he knew before he started singing. He discusses the unique nature of the voice compared to other instruments, highlights the changing nature of the voice, and encourages us to apply the knowledge we gain.

Episode highlights:

• The voice is different from other instruments and requires patience and understanding.
• The voice is a changing instrument, so it is important to be open and welcoming to the change.
• Embrace the uniqueness of your voice and enjoy every moment of singing.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Mike Massé, a musician known for his popular YouTube covers, about his journey from being a lawyer to a full-time musician. Mike explains his approach to choosing songs and how he strives to recreate them faithfully while adding his own touch. He also discusses the challenges of staying healthy as a vocalist and the transition to being self-employed.

Episode highlights:

• There's a charm to a casual gig setting that people can relate to and find comfort in.
• Your music career doesn't have to happen before a "real job."
• Try to emulate rather than imitate.
• Being self-employed can make it difficult to "clock out."

To learn more about Mike, go to https://mikemasse.com/ and https://www.youtube.com/@mikemasse

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John Henny introduces the HEROES system, a method to keep your voice healthy and flexible. Each element of the system is essential for maintaining vocal health and longevity.

Episode highlights:

• The HEROES system (hydration, exercise, range, optimization, energy, and sing) is a comprehensive approach to maintaining vocal health and flexibility.
• Both topical and systemic hydration are crucial for keeping the vocal folds properly hydrated.
• Regular exercise, both for the body and the voice, is essential for maintaining overall vocal health.
• Optimizing vocal technique and resonance can help prevent vocal strain and ensure efficient phonation.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses breaking through self-imposed limitations in singing. He explores the power of memories and stories in shaping our beliefs about our voice and potential, and encourages singers to embrace their unique voice and let go of negative self-talk.

Episode highlights:

• Past experiences and memories shape our beliefs about our voice and potential.
• Accept and embrace your unique voice, including any physical limitations.
• Change negative self-talk and focus on the present moment.
• Share your unique universe with others and let go of stories that hold you back.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John Henny discusses the lessons he learned from writing and publishing his latest book, 'The Mature Singer's Guidebook.' He talks about the challenges he faced during the writing process, how he overcame self-doubt and resistance, and offers valuable advice for anyone embarking on a big project.

Episode highlights:

• Imposter syndrome and self-doubt come with big projects after the initial excitement wears off.
• Stay in the present moment to persevere and see your project to completion.
• Only “done” gets paid.
• Break down the work, set due dates, and hold yourself accountable.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John Henny discusses the importance of singing from the vocal tract. He shares his inspiration for writing his book, The Mature Singer's Guidebook, and how his work with Kerrie Obert helped him understand the significance of the vocal tract in maintaining a healthy voice.

Episode highlights:

• The vocal tract plays a crucial role in singing and should not be overlooked.
• Balancing tension in the vocal tract is essential for a healthy voice.
• Observing and manipulating the vocal tract during practice can lead to improved singing.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Susan Lowell de Solórzano about the concept of biotensegrity and its application to singing. Susan shares her personal experience with biotensegrity and how it changed her approach to singing. She emphasizes the importance of balancing tension and relaxation in singing, and explores the use of metaphors and imagery to enhance vocal performance.

Episode highlights:

• Biotensegrity is a framework for understanding biology using the principles of tensegrity.
• Fascia is a connective tissue that interlinks and holds the body together.
• Balancing tension and relaxation is crucial in singing.
• Metaphors and imagery can be used to enhance vocal performance.

To learn more about Susan, visit https://www.youtube.com/@smlbtarchive and get her book at https://a.co/d/2fWhjV9

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses the importance of vocal values and how they can shape your success as a singer. He emphasizes the difference between what is within your control and what is not, and encourages focus on the things that are within your control as defined by your values.

Episode highlights:

• Focus on what is within your control and accept what is not.
• Identify and prioritize your personal vocal values.
• Consistent study and application of knowledge are crucial for improvement.
• Push through fear and judgment to achieve your singing goals.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with tenor, pedagogue and researcher Nicholas Perna about the topic of voice issues and the stigma surrounding them in the singing community. They discuss the concept of technique shaming, how singers often blame themselves for vocal struggles, and highlight the complexity of singing and the various factors that can affect the voice, emphasizing the need for understanding and support.

Episode highlights:

• Voice issues are common among singers and can be caused by various factors unrelated to technique.
• Blaming singers for their vocal struggles is unfair and unhelpful.
• The singing community should provide support and understanding to those experiencing voice issues.
• Singers should seek help from professionals, such as otolaryngologists and speech language pathologists, and not hesitate to share their struggles with trusted individuals.

To learn more about Nicholas Perna, visit https://nicholasperna.com/ and https://www.vocalfri.com/

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses his top strategies for optimizing the voice. He emphasizes the importance of simplifying the singing process and breaking it down to first principles.

Episode highlights:

• Simplify the singing process by focusing on air, cord, and vowel (ACV).
• Practice efficient breathing and maintain a tall posture.
• Use narrow vowels and semi-occluded vocal tract exercises to optimize the voice for different registers and styles.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with top voice-over artist Liz Hill as she discusses her experience with freelance work and how it has changed her life. Liz highlights the advantages that singers have in voiceover work, as their vocal training and skills are easily transferable. She shares her journey of starting out in freelancing, the potential for income in this field, and her new venture of creating courses and training content to help others get started in freelancing.

Episode highlights:

• Freelance work, particularly in voiceover, can be a lucrative source of income for singers.
• Singers have an advantage in voiceover work due to their vocal training and ability to connect emotionally with the audience.
• Starting out in freelancing may require charging lower rates initially, but as skills improve, rates can be increased.
• Creating courses and training content can be a valuable way to share knowledge and help others succeed in freelancing.

To learn more about Liz Hill, visit https://www.freelancebff.com/

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses how to deal with changing information in the field of singing. Information needs to change and evolve, but it’s important to start with simpler and bigger chunks of information in the beginning of one's singing journey.

Episode highlights:

• Don't fall for the advertising trope that claims everything you know about singing is wrong.
• Focus on the basics and foundational concepts before diving into more esoteric topics.
• Be cautious of misinformation and clickbait in the singing industry.
• Continuously seek knowledge and information that works for you at your current stage.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John interviews Karin Titze Cox and Ingo Titze about their book 'Voices Free After SOVT.' They discuss the groundbreaking approach to voice and the importance of semi-occluded vocal tract exercises (SOVTs).

Episode highlights:

• Having that back pressure helps the vocal folds maintain a more stable and a more efficient posture for vibration.
• Getting the motor memory from SOVTs is a very individual system.
• Do a lot of practice, and do variable practice.
• Don’t resist resistance.

To learn more about Karin Titze Cox and Ingo Titze, and to get the book, visit https://ncvs.org/book-purchase-voice-is-free-after-sovt/

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Dani Elliott as she shares her journey as a backup vocalist and provides insights into the challenges and rewards of touring.

Episode highlights:

• Building a community and making connections is crucial for success as a backup vocalist.
• Taking care of mental and physical health is essential while on tour.
• Preparation, professionalism, and being a good hang are qualities that set successful artists apart.

To learn more about Dani Elliott, visit http://www.danielliott.com/

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about what he would say to his younger self, inspired by Ian Howell’s book “Advice for Young Musicians.”

Episode highlights:

• It’s ok to no longer want what you thought you did before.
• Permanence is an illusion.
• Don’t let the need of others’ approval take you off the path.
• Be present.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John shares his New Year’s resolutions and his approach to make sure he follows through with them.

Episode highlights:

• Making resolutions just once at the beginning of the year isn’t enough.
• You need strategies to build a habit, which then becomes a routine.
• Having accountability is crucial.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John highlights the Top 10 podcast episodes from 2023, based on the number of listens and feedback from listeners.

Episode highlights:

• You should be using your voice all the time.
• Singing is not easy, but if you’re struggling with your voice, you can’t quit.
• John’s personal vocal “setback” has been transformative.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses the new information we’re getting about how the voice works, and how these new findings don’t necessarily discount the old ways of learning the voice.

Episode highlights:

• The feedback we get from the voice tends to lie to us.
• There is not just one way of doing things.
• Be open to all the valuable information available.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how everything in the body is interconnected, and how having a better sense of this connection can greatly affect your singing.

Episode highlights:

• One thing moves; everything moves.
• We are biotensegrity models.
• Imagery is a very powerful way to get better control of the body.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John explains the four levels of competency, and what it really means to reach your highest level of singing.

Episode highlights:

• There is bliss in the first level, unconscious incompetence, but that disables us from growth.
• We may experience frustrations as we progress through the levels of competency.
• All the work we put in during the lower levels of competency is what gives us freedom at the highest level.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with drummer, singer, and author Jason Thomas Gordon about his book, The Singers Talk. Jason spent nearly a decade interviewing some of the greatest vocalists in modern music to compile this wonderful resource guide for singers.

Episode highlights:

• Singers don’t seem to have many resources compared to other musical instruments.
• This is a book you can continuously to learn from.
• Even these incredible professionals struggle with self-doubt.
• Jason asked questions that these singers were never really asked before.

To learn more about Jason Thomas Gordon and his book, visit https://thesingerstalk.com/.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about the three terrible Cs that can affect your singing growth.

Episode Highlights:

• Our own human nature can trap us in the three Cs.
• Your journey is to uncover and express the best, most honest version of you.
• Singing and the voice provide continuous learning.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Kerrie Obert, a Speech-Language Pathologist, Singing Voice Specialist, and Voice Teacher, about vocal tremors that can develop in aging voices, and the current treatments available to help find stability in the voice again. 

Episode Highlights:

• There is unfortunately still not a lot that is known about what can cause a tremor to develop
• A tremor and vibrato have some shared neurological origins
• The techniques in Kerrie Obert’s course can also help with wobbly vibrato

You can learn more about Kerrie and her courses at: obertvoicestudios.com and getvocal-now.com

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about how frustration can actually be a guide for us in our singing journeys, and how to better navigate frustration when we experience it.

Episode Highlights:

• Frustration shows that something is important to you and that you care
• Quitting is not always wrong
• Frustration is like a “check engine” light
• Asking “What, why, and how?” can help you work through frustration

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John and singing teacher Lisa Perks explore the hidden cost of vocal shame. They share personal stories and strategies to overcome self-doubt, making it a riveting listen for all.

Episode Highlights:

• The Challenge of Vocal Wobble
• The Psychological Consequences of Vocal Damage
• The Impact of Losing One's Voice

To find out more about Lisa and her programs, visit epiphanyvocalstudio.com.

To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, online courses, Vocal Assessments and Voice Lessons with his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training, and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com.