Singing Teachers Talk

What if you’re not stuck because you don’t know enough, but because you think you should know everything before you begin? If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by where to start, unsure how to market yourself, or quietly battling imposter syndrome, this episode is for you. We’re exploring why so many singers hesitate to step into teaching — and how a simple 5-Day Challenge might be the reset that brings clarity, confidence, and momentum. Could five focused days change everything? WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 0:52 The things that overwhelm us in singing teaching and business 7:42 Pushing the ‘reset’ button 11:47 What is a 5-day challenge? 16:27 Can I do it again if I’ve already done one? 17:11 Why a 5-day challenge helps singing teachers 20:14 What shift might you notice from doing a 5-day challenge? 21:44 The 5-day challenge special offer 22:30 The next BAST Training 5-day challenge About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Line Hilton The Stage Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.192 How to Set Boundaries as a Singing Teacher Singing Teachers Talk - Ep. 239 10 Common Barriers to Being a Singing Teacher and How to Overcome Them Insight Timer The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron Phil Harrison The Business of Stories by Susan Payton Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.126 ‘The Business of Stories’ - Game-Changing Marketing Strategy Kaya Herstad-Carney REGISTER FOR THE BAST TRAINING 5-DAY CHALLENGE, HERE 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

How does a singing teacher land a vocal coaching job on a TV drama? In this episode, Alexa is joined by vocal coach, performer and returning guest - Candi Underwood, who shares her experience coaching Matt Smith for the Sky Atlantic adaptation of The Death of Bunny Munro, based on the novel by Nick Cave. They explore how the opportunity came about, what was required on set, and which skills singing teachers already have that translate directly into TV coaching work. Perfect listening for singing teachers curious about taking their work beyond the studio and onto screen. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 5:03 What is The Death of Bunny Munro? 6:42 What was the production company looking for in a vocal coach? 10:59 Preparing for the job 16:01 Taking a history 19:12 Surprising essential skills 20:30 Working on technique 23:39 Keeping it professional with high profile figures 28:53 Top 3 skills singing teachers needs for a TV coaching role 32:12 How to get your food in the door About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Singing Teachers Talk - Ep31. Where to Start with Digital Marketing Nick Cave Matt Smith The Death of Bunny Munro Frank Sinatra Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.198 Mastering Singing for Stage, Screen & the Music Industry Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.242 Understanding Motor Learning: How It Can Help Us Give Better Singing Lessons - Eps. 155 & 156 Building Neurodiversity-Inclusive Voice Studios Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.222 The Rise of AI: What It Means for Singers & Teachers Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.226 The Rise of AI: Practical Tools and Strategies For the Singing Teacher ABOUT THE GUEST Candi Underwood is a professional performer, session singer, vocal coach and founder/leader of City of Stars, a group of intermediate musical theatre choirs across Sussex. With over 16 years of experience in the industry, she's been featured as both a singer and songwriter on BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 6Music, Kerrang!, Metal Hammer, Radio X, Planet Rock and more, performed at nationwide festivals and featured in TV ads; all while building a successful coaching business dedicated to nurturing healthy, resilient voices and inspiring bold, fearless performances for singers and screamers alike. Most recently she collaborated with Nick Cave and Matt Smith on Sky TV's 'The Death of Bunny Munro', coaching the former through a singing scene, and featured in the Marks & Spencer Christmas Advert with her choir alongside Dawn French. Website Instagram 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

In this episode of Singing Teachers Talk, Alexa is joined by vocal performance coach Juliet Russell for a rich conversation about identity, artistry, and contemporary vocal training. Juliet shares how she helps singers identify and trust what makes them unique, evolve their voices alongside life and experience, and connect more deeply with audiences — drawing on her work across major TV formats as well as her one-to-one coaching with artists. We explore how to make vocal exercises more musical and stylistically relevant, how voice science can be translated into practical studio tools, and what Juliet sees as key pillars of contemporary vocal training for singing teachers today. The episode also dives into Juliet’s new app Do Your Sing, a contemporary training toolkit designed to support singers with creative, performance-led vocal development. A thoughtful, inspiring listen for singing teachers, coaches, and artists navigating modern voice work. About the presenter HERE WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:44 What is the inspiration and drive in Juliet’s vocal work? 2:19 How to help an artist identify what makes them unique 15:18 TV shows and the artist 17:54 What do artists tend to overlook about their craft? 20:43 What is ‘talent’ and what can be learned? 24:08 The difference between a singing teacher, vocal coach and performance coach 30:08 Translating voice science in the studio 34:18 Contemporary teaching tools 53:22 Juliet’s Do Your Sing! App 1:04:10 Parting advice to contemporary singers and singing teachers RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Artists: Sabrina Carpenter; Lady Gaga; Beyonce; Raye; Andre 3000 & Jack White; Cynthia Erivo; Ariana Grande; Sam Smith; Kim Petras; Christina Aguilera; Rosalia; Alex Warren; Bruno Mars; Scissor; Benson Boone; Jessie J; Kool and the Gang; Jennifer Hudson; Sir Tom Jones Joshua Alamu Jai Ramage Jono McNeil Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.198 Mastering Singing for Stage, Screen & the Music Industry with Jai Ramage Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.123 Insights Into TV Vocal Coaching with The Masked Singer’s Jono McNeil Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.124 Mastering Vocal Style: Licks, Riffs and Runs with Jono McNeil Emer Tully Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.241 Is Your Pelvic Floor Affecting Your Voice? A Deep Dive with Physiotherapist Emer Tully Jenevora Williams Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.242 Understanding Motor Learning: How It Can Help Us Give Better Singing Lessons with Dr Jenevora Williams Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.169 How to Use Gesture for Better Singing with Heather Baker ABOUT THE GUEST Juliet Russell stands as one of the UK’s leading vocal p 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

In this episode, Alexa explores tempo and timekeeping in the voice studio — and why struggling with tempo might not be “just a rhythm problem.” If you find yourself working with a singer who rushes, drags, freezes, or falls apart this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and plenty of practical takeaways — all wrapped up in a very relatable Sunday afternoon analogy. About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Karaoke Version ABOUT THE GUEST Alexa runs a singing tuition practice in the South of England, and is a singing tutor at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools – Italia Conti, where she also regularly panels auditions and assessments. Alexa is the host of the BAST Training Singing Teachers Talk podcast, acts as mentor and unit tutor for the BAST Training Level 5 qualification, and has presented on topics of Musical Theatre repertoire, authentic Musical Theatre performance, and imposter syndrome for Vocology in Practice and The Sing Space. SEE FULL BIO HERE (Add link to the podcast website page) Website Instagram: @AlexaTerryVocalCoaching 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

What if your singing studio could open doors to the industry, too? In this episode, Alexa is joined by talent agent and educator Josephine Lancuba, founder of Studio Talent Collective, to lift the curtain on in-house talent agencies. From creating real audition opportunities for your singers to boosting retention, revenue, and industry credibility, Josephine breaks down how singing teachers can step confidently into talent management. If you’ve ever wondered how to better support your students beyond the studio, this conversation might just have the answer. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:50 Who is Josephine Lancuba? 9:05 What was the catalyst for having an in-house agency? 10:55 In-house talent agency advantages for teacher and client 17:01 How does the industry view in-house talent agencies? 19:59 Getting the contacts 23:41 Balancing singing teaching and being a talent manager 26:25 Helping clients manage rejection 36:55 Integrating an in-house agency 55:35 Would would Josephine change from her journey? About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Spotlight Casting Networks Singing Teachers Talk Ep.230 How to Survive Drama School Auditions: 10 Expert Tips Studio Talent Collective, The Podcast Canva Singing Teachers Talk Ep.192 How to Set Better Boundaries as a Singing Teacher ABOUT THE GUEST Josephine Lancuba is an award-winning performing arts business coach and talent management professional. With over 20 years in the arts industry, she has led and managed studios, entertainment, and production-based businesses, including her own dance and musical theatre studio along with its in-house talent agency service. A former performer, Josephine spent over a decade appearing on stage and screen before shifting her focus to business and talent development. Today, she helps performing arts studio owners build profitable, joy-filled businesses and guides aspiring talent managers through her world-first course, Talent Manager Bootcamp, as well as her plug-in talent agency, Studio Talent Collective, which enables Studio Owners to create and run their own in-house talent agencies. Passionate about the social, emotional, and the physical benefits of the performing arts, Josephine advocates for inclusive, positive opportunities for talent and the industry alike. Website Instagram: @studiotalentcollective 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

To kick off the 2026 season, Alexa and Jenevora Williams dive into the fascinating world of motor learning and what it really means for singing and teaching singing. From walking toddlers and chocolate metaphors to the neuroscience behind skill acquisition, the conversation unpacks why learning to sing is far more complex—and far more human—than we often assume. Together they explore implicit versus explicit learning, internal versus external focus, imagination, metaphor, and the role of trust, play, and mistake-making in vocal development. A thoughtful, wide-ranging discussion that invites singing teachers to simplify their language, deepen their listening, and give both themselves and their students permission to learn messily and creatively. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:59 What is motor control and motor learning? 10:41 What are the stages of learning? 15:48 What is the brain and larynx interface? 18:59 Internal Vs External focus in motor learning 33:35 Choosing metaphorical and imagery based instruction 50:53 Impairment to motor skills 55:09 The future of voice pedagogy integrating neuroscience and imagination About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS Singing Teachers Talk Ep.75 Vocal Rehabilitation for Singers Motor Control, Motor Learning and Brain-Computer Interfaces Heidi Moss Erickson Hearing Singing: A Guide to Functional Listening and Voice Perception by Ian Howell Singing Teachers Talk Ep.237 Beyond the Vocal Tract: How the Brain Shapes What We Hear with Ian Howell Tilting Article Paul Eckman PEVoC Vocal Health Education ABOUT THE GUEST Dr Jenevora Williams is an expert in the fields of vocal health and singing teaching. After a successful career in Opera, she turned her attention to investigating healthy and efficient vocal function. The combination of academic study and practical experience has resulted in a unique perception for understanding the human voice. She was the first singing teacher to be awarded a PhD in voice science in the UK, and won the 2010 BVA Van Lawrence Prize for her outstanding contribution to voice research. Her book, Teaching Singing to Children and Young Adults, has been enormously popular with singing teachers throughout the world. Jenevora is well-known for her imaginative and rigorous international training courses for singing teachers and voice professionals. She is director of Vocal Health Education and Evolving Voice, training the first generation of Voice Rehabilitation Specialists worldwide. As a teacher of singing, she works with professional singers of all ages in both voice rehabilitation and career mentoring. W: jenevorawilliams.com 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

We’re wrapping up 2025 with a conversation that will change the way you think about the voice forever. Physiotherapist Emer Tully from Neuro Tour joins us to unravel the vital — and often underestimated — role of the pelvic floor in singing. From breathing mechanics to alignment, from recognising tightness vs. weakness, to understanding why singers, dancers, teachers and performers of all kinds should care about this powerhouse of stability, this episode is packed with practical insights and surprising - the perfect finale to a year of rich conversations. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 0:38 Thank YOU! 5:20 Why is the pelvic floor so intriguing? 7:59 The 5 diaphragms 12:01 The function of the pelvic floor 13:53 Pregnancy & performance 16:48 Signs of a tight or weak pelvic floor & the impact on singing 21:16 Helping a singer with a tight or weak pelvic floor 30:07 Advice about the gym and methods of ‘support’ in singing 39:32 Pelvic floor & stress 45:25 Recommended resources About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Singing Teachers Talk - Ep. 201 Working with Hypermobile Singers with Sarah Algoet Jennie Morton Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.69 Understanding Pregnancy for the Singer and the Self-Employed with Sarah Joyce & Cat Ogden Feldenkrais Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.183 How to Fix Your Inhale and Transform Your Singing with Lucinda Allen Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.191How to Set Up the Best Exhale for Singing with Lucinda Allen Duncan Rock Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.120 Understanding Singing and Fitness with Duncan Rock Anatomy of Voice by Blandine-Calais-Germain & François Germain Dr Sara Reardon Michelle Edminson @mvmt.101 Jane App ABOUT THE GUEST Emer is NEURO TOUR’s London Associate Director of Education. She qualified from Manchester University with a BSc Physiotherapy degree, and is HCPC accredited as well as a member of the CSP. She is a Vocal Specialist and a Certified Women’s Health Practitioner. She has an advanced medical acupuncture certification; APPI Matwork & Reformer Pilates training & specialises in vocal/ TMJ physiotherapy. Website Instagram: @physio.emer 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Updates | Email Us | Free Group

Thinking about taking your teaching to the next level, diving deeper into your specialist interests, or even writing a degree of your own? In this episode of Singing Teachers Talk, Alexa is joined by educator, performer, and MA creator Kaya Herstad-Carney, who pulls back the curtain on what a master’s degree in the performing arts really offers. From choosing the right pathway and understanding learning outcomes to balancing study with real life, Kaya shares how her own master’s shaped her career, the unexpected opportunities it opened, and what she’s learned from writing not one but two MA programmes. Whether you’re a singing teacher, performer, or creative professional considering postgraduate study, this conversation is packed with insight, encouragement, and the honest realities behind levelling up your education. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 2:27 Why did Kaya do a masters degree? 5:37 What is the advantage of studying for an MA? 10:10 How to choose an MA course 19:19 Juggling a part time MA 21:46 What If I’m not very academic? 26:11 Writing an MA degree 34:22 Marking degree assessments 39:07 Common errors in MA submissions 41:13 Making your MA decision About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS WaterBear The College of Music Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.154 Managing Imposter Syndrome, Low Confidence and Overwhelm as Singing Teachers with Alexa Terry Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.222 The Rise of AI: What It Means for Singers & Teachers with Rachael Drury Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.226 The Rise of AI: Practical Tools and Strategies for the Singing Teacher with Rachael Drury Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.56 Taking the Academic Route with Debbie Winter Voice Study Centre Arts Council ABOUT THE GUEST Kaya Herstad-Carney is a higher education leader, vocal pedagogue, and award-winning creative artist. From September 2025 she becomes Head of Education (Online) at WaterBear College of Music, overseeing MA and BA programmes in songwriting, performance, and music education. A specialist in student-centred learning and vocal habilitation within CCM, she holds an MA from LIPA/Hope and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Kaya has taught across leading institutions including ACM, LIPA, University of Liverpool, and BAST Training, and serves on the Advisory Board for Vocology in Practice. Her research interests span performance anxiety, singing for wellbeing, voice science, and sustainable creative careers. Alongside academia, she is an award-winning singer-songwriter whose work has appeared on stage, TV, and film, performing internationally and alongside ar 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Updates | Email Us | Free Group

Thinking about becoming a singing teacher but not sure what’s holding you back? In this episode, Alexa and Line break down the most common barriers aspiring singing teachers face. Learn how to get started with what you already know, build confidence step by step, choose the right training, and grow your teaching practice with clarity and purpose. If you’re ready to take the next step in your singing teaching journey, this conversation will help you move forward with confidence. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 0:31 How did Line become a singing teacher? 4:22 I don’t know enough & imposter syndrome 11:26 There’s too much choice 18:26 I don’t have the piano skills 23:37 I don’t have confidence in my own voice 28:25 I’m just not qualified 31:26 What about money? 36:51 My schedule is already busy 40:59 I don’t know how to start a business 46:10 What if I hurt a student’s voice? About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Line Hilton Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.237 Beyond the Vocal Tract: How the Brain Shapes What We Hear with Ian Howell Hearing Singing - A Guide to Functional Listening and Voice Perception Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.111 Essential Piano Skills for Singers and Voice Teachers with Brenda Earle Stokes Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.158 How Music Theory and Keyboard Skills Can Transform Your Singing Teaching with Amy Walton Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.88 Pros and Cons of Singing Teacher Qualifications with Line Hilton Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.229 Ways to Make More Money as a Singing Teacher with Zoe Stibi Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.227 Following Your Bliss: How to Align your Life and Business with Gemma Sugrue Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.220 Time Management: Making Time When There Isn't Any with Line Hilton & Alexa Terry Chris Johnson 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Updates | Email Us | Free Group

Alexa Terry unwraps ten fresh, fun, and fabulously festive Christmas songs to help singing teachers bring new sparkle into their studios, offering a mix of musical theatre treasures, modern pop tunes, heartfelt ballads, and powerful rock renditions that give both students and teachers a welcome break from the usual overplayed holiday hits. With vocal range guidance, technical teaching opportunities, and stylistic notes for each song this episode provides a studio-ready repertoire list designed to keep spirits high and festive performances inspired throughout the busy holiday season. About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS ABRSM musicnotes.com ‘A Most Remarkable Fella: Frank Loesser, and the Guys and Dolls in His Life' by Susan Loesser ABOUT THE GUEST Alexa runs a singing tuition practice in the South of England, and is a singing tutor at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools – Italia Conti, where she also regularly panels auditions and assessments. Alexa is the host of the BAST Training Singing Teachers Talk podcast, mentors for the BAST Training Level 5 qualification, and has presented on topics of Musical Theatre repertoire, authentic Musical Theatre performance, and imposter syndrome for Vocology in Practise and The Sing Space. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website Instagram: @AlexaTerryVocalCoaching 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Updates | Email Us | Free Group

This week, Alexa chats with the brilliant Ian Howell to explore how we really hear the singers we work with. From psychoacoustics and functional listening to timbre, bias and intention, Ian unpacks the hidden processes behind vocal perception—and how understanding them can transform the way we teach. A deep, fascinating conversation for any singing teacher wanting sharper ears and smarter tools. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:53 What is psychoacoustics? 5:28 How is sound perceived by us? 12:38 What impacts the way we perceive sound? 20:46 Separating function from bias 25:48 Belt scenario 35:36 How do singers hear themselves? 40:59 How to listen and observe with skill 1:05:27 The relationship between intent and perception 1:15:15 Using spectrograms 1:19:57 The way Ian teaches About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Hearing Singing - A Guide to Functional Listening and Voice Perception by Ian Howell Johan Sundberg The Acoustics of the Singing Voice by Johan Sundberg Science of the Singing Voice by Johan Sundberg Ingo Titze ‘Goodbye Yellow Brick Road’ by Sarah Bareilles Jeannie LoVetri Feldenkrais Singing Teachers Talk Podcast - Ep.63 Developing a Singer’s Self Awareness and Clarifying Intention with Robert Sussuma Cornelius Reid Voce Vista Advice for Young Musicians by Ian Howell Structure of Singing by Richard Miller ABOUT THE GUEST Dr. Ian Howell is the Founder and Chief Educator of the Embodied Music Lab, offering professional development and consulting for musicians and teachers. He is the author of Advice for Young Musicians (2023) and Hearing Singing: A Guide to Functional Listening and Voice Perception (2025). From 2013–2023, Ian served on the voice faculty at the New England Conservatory, directing the graduate voice pedagogy program and leading research in the NEC Voice and Sound Analysis Lab, where he and his students presented widely and contributed vital work during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Updates | Email Us | Free Group

In this episode, Alexa is joined by Becky Morton, Principal of Further Education at ACM, to explore what the FE academic route can offer young singers stepping into today’s music industry. Becky shares how the curriculum is structured with project-based training, and how this helps students to build both industry awareness and artistic identity from the age of sixteen. The pair dig into why early professional habits matter, how the diploma pathway compares to traditional A-levels, and what young performers gain from learning to work with producers, bands and music businesses in a real-world environment. Becky also talks about current vocal trends, the technical demands of pop-rock singing, and how ACM is adapting its teaching to industry changes, including the rise of AI. You better press play, then. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 0:44 Becky’s desert island song 03:50 The role of Principle of FE at the Academy of Contemporary Music 5:00 Benefits and challenges of an academic route into music 10:13 A look at technique for pop-rock 12:50 Defining the pop-rock aesthetic 15:14 Artists to study in this genre 18:16 How important is music theory and sight singing? 22:54 2025 vocal and musical trends 30:56 What Becky wishes every singer understood About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS ACM UAL Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.231 Evolving Vocal Trends: Training Functional Registration in Contemporary Commercial Music with April Young Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.222 The Rise of AI: What it Means for Singers & Teachers with Singing Teachers Talk - Ep,226 The Rise of AI: Practical Tools and Strategies for the Singing Teachers with Rachael Drury ISM Suno Udio Follow Becky’s Bands: The Likeness; Two’s Up; The Hooch Toots ABOUT THE GUEST Rebecca Morton, Principal of FE at ACM, is a professional musician, vocal coach, and musical director with 20+ years of experience. She has collaborated with artists such as Adrian Smith, Imogen Heap, and Alexander O’Neal, and toured as the solo backing vocalist for Hitomi Yaida across major UK and Japanese arenas. Her work includes recordings with Crispian Mills, Mattafix, cast albums, and dance releases with EMI and Hed Kandi. A vocal coach since 2002, she has supported artists like James Toseland and Marlon Roudette. Holding a Masters in Music Psychology, she champions passion, reliability, and excellence at ACM. SEE FULL BIO HERE Instagram: @acm_ldn Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. Download >>> HERE At BAST Training, we help singers like you turn passion into purpose — building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach successfully without feeling like an imposter. You don’t have to figure it out alone. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Join other singers becoming confident teachers at basttraining.com basttraining.com | Updates | Email Us | Free Group

In this episode, Alexa shares 10 brilliant songs that sit in the A4–D5 low-belt zone for female singers — a range full of character, energy, and storytelling potential. From Standard Broadway favourites, 90s pop-rock anthems and modern hits this episode is packed with fresh repertoire ideas, stylistic insight, and creative inspiration for singers and teachers alike. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST 0:38 Why might these songs be helpful? 2:07 10 ‘low belt’ songs for female singers About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.205 10 Songs to Inspire Your Singing Lessons Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.210 10 Songs to Celebrate Pride in Your Studio Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.212 10 Songs to Find Your Pop Style Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.219 10 Songs for Male Contemporary Musical Theatre Singers Amanda Flynn ABOUT THE GUEST Alexa runs a singing tuition practice in the South of England, and is a singing tutor at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools – Italia Conti, where she also regularly panels auditions and assessments. Alexa is the host of the BAST Training Singing Teachers Talk podcast, mentors for the BAST Training Level 5 qualification, and has presented on topics of Musical Theatre repertoire, authentic Musical Theatre performance, and imposter syndrome for Vocology in Practise and The Sing Space. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website Instagram: @AlexaTerryVocalCoaching Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. Download >>> HERE At BAST Training, we help singers like you turn passion into purpose — building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach successfully without feeling like an imposter. You don’t have to figure it out alone. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Join other singers becoming confident teachers at basttraining.com basttraining.com | Updates | Email Us | Free Group

What if the secret to better singing practice isn’t doing more, but understanding why we avoid it in the first place? Voice educator Tessa Smith Whicker joins Alexa to explore how her master’s research reshaped her view of practice — from battling guilt and distraction to embracing curiosity and compassion. Discover how to get singers excited about their own practice, how teachers can reframe “you need to practice” into empowering questions, and why small, playful tasks can make all the difference. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 3:16 What do you believe practice actually is? 8:10 Common barriers to practice 10:02 Options to manage the barriers 18:31 Playing devil’s advocate 22:18 Holes in the research 25:18 How to effectively set practice 39:18 The role of the singing teacher and rapport 46:23 Measuring progress 53:00 Tessa’s practice hub and podcast About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.164 Music and the Brain: The Science of Learning and Practice with Dr Molly Gebrian Part One Jacob Collier Singing for the Self Conscious by Becky Gilhespie Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.166 Overcoming Self-consciousness in Singing with Becky Gilhespie Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.131 Mastering Research Papers: How to Read with Ease and Extract Knowledge with Kate Cubley Cheryl Porter Kim Chandler Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.70 Coaching Contemporary Commercial Music with Kim Chandler The Singer’s Guide podcast by Tessa Smith ABOUT THE GUEST Tessa Smith Whicker holds a BA in Jazz Studies, an MA in Vocal Pedagogy, and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Her research explores the likes of performance assessment, stylistic awareness, and the decolonisation of Popular Music singing education. She teaches across Higher Education institutions in the North of England and leads choirs and community singing groups. Passionate about developing self-sufficient, self-compassionate singers, Tessa shares tools for effective and enjoyable practice through her social media, podcast The Singer’s Guide, and membership platform The Singer’s Practice Hub. SEE FULL BIO HERE Websites: tessasmith.com & thesingersguide.com Instagram: @tessasmithmusic BAST Training helps singers gain the confidence, knowledge, skills & understanding required to be a successful singing teacher. "The course was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. It's an investment with so much return. I would recommend this course to any teacher wanting to up-skill, refresh or start up." Kelly Taylor, NZ ...more basttraining.com | Subscribe | Email Us | FB Group

In this insightful episode, Alexa chats with Sami Wong, a speech and language pathologist who helps clients navigate communication challenges such as aphasia. Sami shares her personal journey into speech therapy, inspired by her late father’s recovery from a stroke, and explains what aphasia really is, and the role music and singing can play in therapy. We also dive into Sami’s creative side hustle—her successful Etsy shop where she sells educational anatomy prints for SLPs and voice professionals. Whether you’re a singing teacher, therapist, or simply curious about language, the brain, and communication, this episode will leave you inspired and informed. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 2:36 What is aphasia? 5:18 What is neuroplasticity? 7:46 Can you recover from aphasia? 9:53 Compensatory communication activities for aphasia 11:10 Music & aphasia 13:46 What should singing teachers know about the work of an SLP? 15:06 Setting up a side hustle 21:07 Advice on creating an Etsy shop 23:46 Sami’s gift to you About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Melodic Intonation Therapy Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.211 Learning Vocal Anatomy through Mindful Colouring with Eimear McCarthy Luddy GET SAMI’S PRINT WITH THIS BAST DISCOUNT CODE: BAST10 ABOUT THE GUEST Sami Wong is a speech-language pathologist based in the Pacific Northwest, specialising in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and helping clients build confidence, independence, and connection. She recently completed a Ph.D. in Education and Leadership, focusing on return-to-work research for individuals with communication challenges. Inspired by her father’s experience with aphasia after a stroke, Sami is dedicated to advancing awareness and rehabilitation for communication disorders. Alongside her full-time role, she runs Speech+Language, a small business offering free resources, study aids, and digital prints for SLPs and care partners. With a background spanning media, fashion, finance, and education, Sami blends creativity with clinical expertise to empower others and advocate for people with aphasia. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website Instagram: @samiwong_ Etsy BAST Training helps singers gain the confidence, knowledge, skills & understanding required to be a successful singing teacher. "The course was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. It's an investment with so much return. I would recommend this course to any teacher wanting to up-skill, refresh or start up." Kelly Taylor, NZ ...more basttraining.com | Subscribe | Email Us | FB Group

Ever wondered how world-class singers keep their voices strong night after night on global tours? In this episode, we go behind the curtain with Mindy Pack — elite vocal coach to stars like Miley Cyrus, Lil Nas X, Sabrina Carpenter, and Justin Timberlake — to explore the science, strategy, and stamina behind life on the road. Discover how artists build vocal endurance, plus the secrets behind Mindy’s legendary 'Vocal 911 Kit' From vocal warm-ups and bodywork to tour prep and mental resilience, this conversation is packed with tips for singers, teachers, and music lovers alike. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 2:22 Creating a blueprint for a touring artists 11:35 Teacher-Artist rapport 14:38 Giving demonstration 15:58 Choosing keys and set lists 19:00 Treadmill training 21:57 Working with vocal injury 26:21 Mindy’s ‘Vocal 911’ kit 29:30 The Vocalzone debate 31:20 When is the best time for massage, stretch and warm-up? 33:49 What is it like being a vocal coach on tour? Click for presenter bios RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.40 Integrated Skills: Teaching Singing to Dancers Bemer System BAST Article - Vocalzone, Saviours or Destroyers? ABOUT THE GUEST Mindy Pack is a globally respected vocologist, vocal coach, and voice specialist known for her innovative, science-based approach to vocal performance and health. Blending decades of stage experience with deep expertise in voice science and physiology, she helps singers, actors, and speakers achieve peak performance while protecting their vocal longevity. As co-founder and director of the SVARA Project with Dr. Reena Gupta, Mindy collaborates with leading ENTs, laryngologists, and speech-language pathologists to provide advanced vocal rehabilitation and manual therapy. She works with clients worldwide from her studios in Salt Lake City and Los Angeles, offering one-on-one coaching, biofeedback sessions, and bodywork focused on vocal endurance and optimization. Her clients include some of the biggest names in entertainment—Justin Timberlake, Miley Cyrus, Lil Nas X, Noah Kahan, Brandi Carlile, and The Lumineers—as well as Broadway performers, voice-over artists, and emerging talent. Many credit her signature Vocal Tract Reconditioning method as essential to their success on tours, award shows, and global stages. Mindy is also the creator of The Voice Straw, a groundbreaking vocal training tool used by performers worldwide. Beyond coaching, she is a passionate educator, frequent conference presenter, and humanitarian dedicated to empowering future leaders. Driven by a lifelong love of voice and performance, Mindy’s mission is simple: to help every artist unlock their full vocal potential. Website BAST Training helps singers gain the confidence, knowledge, skills & understanding required to be a successful singing teacher. "The course was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. It's an investment with so much return. I would recommend this course to any teacher wanting to up-skill, refresh or start up." Kelly Taylor, NZ ...more basttraining.com | Subscribe | Email Us | FB Group

Who decides what’s in when it comes to singing styles — and how do voice teachers keep up? In this fun and insightful episode, Alexa chats with voice teacher April Young about how changing trends in pop, musical theatre, and CCM are reshaping vocal training. From falsetto and belt to the science of registers and resonance, we explore how singers can stay healthy, expressive, and ahead of the curve. Perfect for voice teachers, performers, and anyone curious about the ever-evolving art of singing. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 2:25 What are the current musical trends in 2025? 4:43 Who decides musical trends? 6:20 How does one laryngeal register impact the other? 10:46 Visible, audible and sensory clues of TA dominance 12:43 Does imitation have limitation? 15:05 Visible, audible and sensory clues of CT dominance 16:33 When is the best time to train vocal registers? 20:45 Acoustic register shifts and choosing the best vowel 25:58 Training registers alongside trends 45:16 Changing trends in CCM and impacts on the studio About the presenter, click HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Journal of Singing ‘Mixed Up and Upside Down - Underdeveloped Registers in Men and Women Due to Vocal Trends in Popular Music: Turning Two Pedagogic Challenges into Opportunities in Today's Voice Studio’ by April Young William Venard Singing Teachers Talk Ep.152 ‘Tomato, Tomahto’: Understanding Singing Terminology Manuel Garcia Singing Teachers Talk Ep.133 Mastering Belt in Musical Theatre Singing Teachers Talk Ep.200 The Secret to Powerful Belting and Seamless Mixing Singing Teachers Talk Ep.146 How to Understand and Apply Vocal Acoustic Pedagogy Singing Teachers Talk Ep.172 Understanding Acoustic Registers Shenandoah University The Systematic Approach to Voice by Dr Kari Ragan The Structure of Singing by Richard Miller Chris Johnson Hoberman Sphere Mary Saunders Barton Kerrie Obert Singing Teachers Talk Ep.151 How to Sing with Twang ABOUT THE GUEST April Young maintains a vibrant voice studio in Spokane, WA, where she specializes in classical, music theater and Contemporary Commercial Music techniques and repertoire. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music (Voice Performance), a Master of Voice Pedagogy and has served on the faculty of three area schools. In addition to her teaching, April has been active as a soloist and choral conductor in several local churches. Her performance experience spans recital, oratorio, and music theater and her session work includes vocals for a title in the Myst computer game series. A published writer, she has contributed to the Journal of Singing through the National Association of Teachers of Singing, authoring an BAST Training helps singers gain the confidence, knowledge, skills & understanding required to be a successful singing teacher. "The course was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. It's an investment with so much return. I would recommend this course to any teacher wanting to up-skill, refresh or start up." Kelly Taylor, NZ ...more basttraining.com | Subscribe | Email Us | FB Group

Drama school auditions can feel like a mix of excitement, nerves and big dreams. In this episode, Alexa shares her top strategies for surviving and thriving in drama school auditions. From preparation to presence, discover how to bring your best self into the room and make the most of every opportunity. Whether you’re auditioning for the first time or guiding others through the process, this episode will leave you feeling ready to go. About the presenter, click HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Singing Teachers Talk Ep.214 The Secret to a Portfolio Career: Singing, Teaching and Creating with Rosie Williamson musicnotes.com Sheet Music Direct Scribd Ep.219 10 Songs for Male Contemporary Musical Theatre Singers with Conor O Hara ABOUT THE GUEST Alexa runs a singing tuition practice in the South of England, and is a singing tutor at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools – Italia Conti, where she also regularly panels auditions and assessments. Alexa is the host of the BAST Training Singing Teachers Talk podcast, mentors for the BAST Training Level 5 qualification, and has presented on topics of Musical Theatre repertoire, authentic Musical Theatre performance, and imposter syndrome for Vocology in Practise and The Sing Space. SEE FULL BIO HERE (Add link to the podcast website page) Website Instagram: @AlexaTerryVocalCoaching BAST Training helps singers gain the confidence, knowledge, skills & understanding required to be a successful singing teacher. "The course was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. It's an investment with so much return. I would recommend this course to any teacher wanting to up-skill, refresh or start up." Kelly Taylor, NZ ...more basttraining.com | Subscribe | Email Us | FB Group

In this episode of the Singing Teachers Talk Podcast, vocal coach and business mentor Zoe Stibi shares how she turned a career crisis into thriving studios, a booming YouTube channel, and multiple income streams. From raising your rates with confidence to building an online presence that attracts students worldwide, Zoe breaks down practical strategies to help you earn more while working less. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:14 What would you if you won the lottery? 3:44 Turning a crisis into a transformation 16:00 Setting your prices 25:15 Youtube Vs Instagram 39:47 Standing out in the crow 41:33 Monetising Youtube 50:35 Making the first step 55:33 Zoe’s Vocal Coach Accelerator Programme About the presenter, click HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.227 Following Your Bliss: ow to Align Your Life and Business with Gemma Sugrue Singers Having Coffee Podcast Ep.6 Mistakes, Myths & the importance of vowels with Gemma Sugrue Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.79 How to Price Your Business in a Cost of Living Crisis with Mark Peacock Thomann Shure Microphone MyMusicStaff Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.93 How to Organise Your Singing Studio Business with My Music Staff Zoom Singers Having Coffee Podcast ABOUT THE GUEST Zoe Stibi is a business coach and vocal pedagogue with 18+ years’ experience teaching singers across four countries. After rebuilding her music studio five times—and reinventing her entire business during 2020—she discovered that success requires not just talent, but structure. Today, she’s turned a 7-day grind into a sustainable 4-day workweek with creative time, balance, and six-figure revenue, and now helps other music teachers do the same. As a Certified Estill Master Trainer with a Master’s in Musical Theatre from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Zoe makes vocal technique accessible and empowering. She has guided students into top programs including BRITS School and RADA, and teaches across classical, musical theatre, pop, and CCM. Having overcome her own vocal injuries, she brings both technical expertise and empathy to her work—showing singers and teachers what’s possible when artistry meets the right systems. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website Youtube Instagram: @zoestibivocalcoach BAST Training helps singers gain the confidence, knowledge, skills & understanding required to be a successful singing teacher. "The course was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. It's an investment with so much return. I would recommend this course to any teacher wanting to up-skill, refresh or start up." Kelly Taylor, NZ ...more basttraining.com | Subscribe | Email Us | FB Group

As singing teachers, we might often wonder: are my students actually having fun? Fun doesn’t have to mean over-the-top excitement—it’s about creating moments of joy, curiosity, and connection. In this episode, Alexa shares 10 practical ways to make singing lessons more enjoyable for students of all ages. From playful games and tongue twisters to using props, humour, and mindful moments, these ideas keep lessons fresh and engaging. Discover how to balance progress with play, while building a safe space where singers feel supported and confident. You’ll come away with strategies that make lessons more memorable, effective, and truly enjoyable. About the presenter, click HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Scales and Arpeggios from The Aristocats Example: My Mind by Yebba Jenevora Williams Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.155 Part One: Building Neurodiversity-Inclusive Voice Studios Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.156 Part Two: Building Neurodiversity-Inclusive Voice Studios Guns and Ships from Hamilton Singing Teachers Talk - Ep. 159 How Toys and Props can Create Dynamic Singing Lessons ABOUT THE GUEST Alexa runs a singing tuition practice in the South of England, and is a singing tutor at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools – Italia Conti, where she also regularly panels auditions and assessments. Alexa is the host of the BAST Training Singing Teachers Talk podcast, mentors for the BAST Training Level 5 qualification, and has presented on topics of Musical Theatre repertoire, authentic Musical Theatre performance, and imposter syndrome for Vocology in Practise and The Sing Space. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website Instagram: @AlexaTerryVocalCoaching BAST Training helps singers gain the confidence, knowledge, skills & understanding required to be a successful singing teacher. "The course was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. It's an investment with so much return. I would recommend this course to any teacher wanting to up-skill, refresh or start up." Kelly Taylor, NZ ...more basttraining.com | Subscribe | Email Us | FB Group