Made It In Music: Interviews With Artists, Songwriters, And Music Industry Pros

Ben Stennis is a Grammy-winning, multi-week No.1 songwriter behind Cody Johnson’s “’Til You Can’t,” plus cuts with Morgan Wallen, Tim McGraw, Bailey Zimmerman, High Valley, and Jason Aldean. He shares his unlikely path from stuntman dreams to Nashville, the decade-long wait before his first deal, and how faith and biblical wisdom guide everything from co-writes to career decisions. We talk preparation for high-pressure bus runs, the power of writing with your crew (“iron sharpens iron”), guarding your name (Proverbs 22:1), resisting comparison in the scroll era, setting lyrical boundaries, giving generously, and keeping the focus on purpose over hype. If you’re a songwriter, artist, or producer who wants sustainable success without losing your soul, this conversation will light a fire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of the Made It In Music Podcast focuses on the often-overlooked elements that truly set great collaborators apart: soft skills. Seth Mosley explains why traits like emotional awareness, adaptability, and humility are essential for success in co-writing environments. Learn how mastering the room can be just as important as mastering your craft, and why the way you carry yourself might just open more doors than you think. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Made It In Music Podcast, we dive into the reality that AI is no longer a future concept — it’s here, and it’s shaping how songs get written, produced, and even performed. We explore how tools like Suno and Udio are being used by songwriters and producers, the legal and ethical questions they raise, and the impact these technologies are having on the craft of music-making. From groundbreaking opportunities to real concerns for human creators, this conversation will equip you to navigate the new era of music with confidence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Made It In Music Podcast, Seth Mosley pulls back the curtain on the world of music publishing—what publishers do, why they matter, and how understanding their role can help you grow as a songwriter. He shares tactical tips on staying organized, building a strong catalog, creating great demos, and consistently showing up. With the motto “Work like it’s up to you, and pray like it’s up to God,” this episode blends real-world strategy with a faith-driven mindset. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Made It In Music podcast, Seth Mosley sits down with business manager Lauren Robinson to unpack the financial fundamentals every independent artist and songwriter needs to thrive.Listen to the episode for practical insights on:✔️ How to manage cash flow and avoid common financial pitfalls✔️ The importance of having multiple income streams✔️ When to bring on a business manager or financial team✔️ Simple steps for building long-term wealth and financial securityWhether you're just getting started or earning steady income, this episode gives you the tools to plan wisely, build wealth, and create a career (and legacy) you’re proud of.Learn more about Lauren Robinson and her company Legacy Business Management here.Interested in joining trainings with industry professionals LIVE? ➡️ Join the Song Chasers Community at www.joinsongchasers.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Made It In Music Podcast, veteran songwriter Tony Wood shares his journey into the Contemporary Christian Music world and the habits that have kept his writing sharp for decades. From transforming weak lines into strong ones, to the power of writing everything down, Tony offers practical, heartfelt advice on how to craft lyrics that truly connect. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your writing, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Made It In Music Podcast, Seth Mosley and X O’Connor sit down to explore what truly separates good from legendary in the world of songwriting and production. They break down the core traits of hitmakers, the secrets behind unforgettable hooks, and the habits that help creators stay relevant across decades. You'll hear insights on how the greats continue to evolve with the industry, plus practical takeaways you can apply to your own music journey today. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to write your next big hit, this episode is packed with wisdom from two industry veterans who’ve seen it all. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Made It In Music Podcast, X O’Connor sits down to unpack the real-life strategies behind finding clients as a producer. X shares practical advice on building a strong portfolio, showing up online in an intentional way, and marketing yourself without feeling salesy. He also talks about the power of being genuine, how confidence plays a role in attracting the right opportunities, and why building relationships is still the most important part of the process. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your client game, this episode is packed with valuable insights from someone who’s done it successfully. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Made It In Music Podcast, Seth Mosley and X O’Connor answer some of the most common music production questions we get from producers inside our Song Chasers community. They share expert advice on how to take your productions from good to great — covering topics like vocal production tips, sound selection strategies, editing techniques, and ways to boost your creative workflow. Whether you’re looking to improve your mixes, produce better vocals, or find fresh inspiration in the studio, this conversation is packed with actionable music production tips to help you level up your skills and make better records. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to the Made It In Music Podcast! In this episode, we're sitting down with songwriter and producer Paul Duncan, whose work spans pop, indie, and Christian music. Paul has collaborated with powerhouse artists like Lauren Daigle, Jordan Feliz, and Patrick Mayberry, and brings a thoughtful, dynamic approach to everything he writes and produces.Whether you're an aspiring songwriter or a seasoned pro, Paul shares invaluable tips specifically for crafting impactful Contemporary Christian Music (CCM). From writing with purpose to navigating co-writes with clarity, this conversation is packed with insight.This episode was recorded live with our Song Chasers community. Want to be part of future live sessions? Learn more and join us at joinsongchasers.com.Let’s dive in! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s Riley Taylor, your Song Chasers Community Manager at Full Circle Music. Join me, Seth Mosley, Maggie Youngs, and X O’Connor as we discuss how to build real relationships in the music industry!

Legendary songwriter Tom Douglas joins Seth Mosley to share invaluable wisdom on the patience, passion, and storytelling that make great songs. He discusses the importance of letting songs reveal themselves over time, why small but meaningful ideas resonate, and how slowing down can transform your songwriting process. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your craft, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights.This conversation was recorded live with our Song Chasers community. Learn more at joinsongchasers.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Made It In Music Podcast, Seth Mosley and Maggie Youngs sit down with Jerry Negrotto to dive into an often-overlooked topic in the music industry: mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Drawing from his personal journey and his work with the NOTHING HIDDEN movement, Jerry shares powerful insights and practical tools to help songwriters and artists stay grounded in an industry that never slows down. Being a musician isn’t just about writing songs and playing shows—it’s about caring for your mind, heart, and soul. Don’t miss this encouraging and insightful conversation! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, Seth Mosley and Riley Taylor sit down with the Song Chasers Community to share their insights on what NOT to do in a co-writing session. Drawing from their personal experiences, they dive into fourteen key mistakes to avoid, offering valuable tips to help make your collaborations more successful. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back!! It’s Riley Taylor, your Song Chasers Community Manager at Full Circle Music, and we’re kicking off this season with a bang! Join me, Seth Mosley, Maggie Youngs, and X O’Connor as we pull back the curtain on what’s new at Full Circle Music and tackle some of the hottest topics in the music industry.

In this episode, X O’Connor interviews Jacob “BIZ” Morris. They discuss a wide range of topics including session etiquette, what its like working in Atlanta, How they got to where they are now, and how labels and artists get in touch with the recording studio to book sessions. Jacob is a Grammy award winning mixing engineer and one of the presidents at Reach Records in Atlanta, Georgia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, X O’Connor interviews Jacob “BIZ” Morris. They discuss a wide range of topics including session etiquette, what its like working in Atlanta, How they got to where they are now, and how labels and artists get in touch with the recording studio to book sessions. Jacob is a Grammy award winning mixing engineer and one of the presidents at Reach Records in Atlanta, Georgia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Riley Taylor and Seth Mosely sat down with Alex Akimov to talk about the future of the music industry. Akimov started playing the guitar when he was 11 years old. In 2006, he graduated from Gnessin State Musical College in Moscow, Russia, with a BA degree in Classical guitar, Jazz guitar and composition. In September 2006, Akimov moved to Los Angeles to study at the Los Angeles Music Academy College of Music (LAMA). After graduating from LAMA in 2008, Akimov started working as a full-time musician. He now runs a youtube channel talking all about how to promote your music and effectively reach new audiences.Here is Alex’s Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itsadvertising Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Riley Taylor and Seth Mosely sat down with Alex Akimov to talk about the future of the music industry. Akimov started playing the guitar when he was 11 years old. In 2006, he graduated from Gnessin State Musical College in Moscow, Russia, with a BA degree in Classical guitar, Jazz guitar and composition. In September 2006, Akimov moved to Los Angeles to study at the Los Angeles Music Academy College of Music (LAMA). After graduating from LAMA in 2008, Akimov started working as a full-time musician. He now runs a youtube channel talking all about how to promote your music and effectively reach new audiences.Here is Alex’s Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itsadvertising Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of this episode, Tim Hunze discusses the ins and outs of Music publishing. He also talks about what makes a song desirable for music publishers. Tim Hunze is currently the VP of publishing at Big Machine Music. Tim has also worked for anthem music as Genral Manager and many other companies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.