www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Bob Carlin is among the world's top innovators and prolific performers of clawhammer banjo, and is best known for his solo recordings, collaborations with artists such as Bruce Molsky, Cheick Hamala Diabate, John Hartford, Erynn Marshall, and as a longtime member of the legendary Hartford String Band. He also enriches t…

Struggling to see results from your practice? In this episode, we uncover why traditional practice methods often fall short and how a simple mindset shift can unlock real progress. What you’ll learn: The biggest mistake musicians make in the practice room How judgment blocks improvement and what to do instead A mindset shift that makes practice mor…

Have you ever felt like you’ve outgrown the career path you once dreamed of? In this episode, I sit down with Kate Kayaian—career and mindset coach, podcast host, and author of Beyond Potential. We explore how musicians and creatives can reassess their careers, redefine success, and reignite their passion for their craft. Kate shares her own journe…

More hours in the practice room don’t always lead to better results. In this episode, discover a simple, science-backed 3-step method to make every practice session more effective—without adding extra time. You'll learn how to: Use priming to sharpen focus and set clear intentions Implement micro rests to improve retention and prevent mental fatigu…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This episode features Tim Ellis, a wonderful bluegrass banjoist best known for his years performing & recording with Jim & Jesse and the Virginia Boys. He has also worked as a sideman for various other professional groups and recording sessions, and released an album under his own name titled "Banjo Serenade." Sponsored…

Why do you sound great in the practice room but struggle on stage? In this episode, we explore: Why performances feel so different from practice How your nervous system reacts under pressure The key mistake musicians make in preparation A five-step method to perform with confidence Learn how to bridge the gap between practice and performance so you…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Today we have a follow-up episode to #152, which featured the engineers behind the innovative ToneDexter product, by Audio Sprockets. In this one, host Keith Billik demonstrates what ToneDexter can do, by programming wavemaps using every combination of 3 different banjo pickups (by K&K, Schatten, and EMG) and 5 differen…

In this episode, we tackle the common challenge of losing momentum with your goals. Whether it’s the start of the year or halfway through a big project, staying on track can feel overwhelming. I share three key strategies to help you: Build confidence and trust in your ability to follow through. Develop small, impactful habits that keep you moving …

Sally and Ben are still away for the festive period. But to keep you going, Sally introduces a talk Ben did in November 2024 for the Cambridge Christian Union, titled 'The Future of Biotechnology (And What It Means to Be Human)'. Happy New Year!Από τον CMF

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This Bonus episode is a recording of a "Fireside Chat" session from the 2024 Great Lakes Music Camp, featuring legendary banjoist (and Bluegrass Boy) Bob Black! Bob shares his stories and experiences of his time playing and working for Bill Monroe in the mid-1970's. Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com B…

Sally and Ben are away for the festive period. But to keep you going until they are back, Sally introduces Ben's talk at the CMF London Students Christmas Gathering in 2021, titled ‘The Preciousness of Christmas’. Merry Christmas!Από τον CMF

In this episode, I introduce the Power Reset Ritual—a simple, 5-step tool to help you calm your mind, regain focus, and reconnect with your power when you feel stuck or overwhelmed. What You’ll Learn: How the Power Reset Ritual was created and how it works. The 5 steps to calm your nervous system, ground yourself, and take actionable steps. Why thi…

Feeling overwhelmed by endless tasks and to-do lists? In this episode, I introduce the Eisenhower Matrix, a simple yet powerful framework to help you prioritize effectively and regain control of your time and energy. What You’ll Learn: Why not all tasks are created equal and how to focus on what truly matters. The four categories of the Eisenhower …

This week, Sally and Ben discuss the recently released film, ‘ Wicked’, and in particular the film’s counter-cultural emphasis on friendship. They also survey the latest news on the Assisted Dying Bill, and how they're thinking about it now that the Bill has passed its second reading. References: In the show, Ben and Sally mention that the Bill pas…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This episode will tell you everything you want to know about ToneDexter, an innovative product from Audio Sprockets for live acoustic musicians that gives you the tone of a microphone, with the simplicity of using a pickup! Here to discuss that, as well as ToneDexter's many other features, are James May and Josh Bennett…

In this episode, I share how gratitude can transform the way you approach music. We’ll explore: Why gratitude isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a powerful mindset for growth. How gratitude shifts focus from frustration to possibility. Real-life examples of how gratitude boosts motivation, builds resilience, and fosters confidence. Plus, I’ll walk…

This week, Ben and Sally discuss the recent resignation of Justin Welby as Archbishop of Canterbury, lament the associated abuse scandals previously buried by the Church of England and discuss how we can respond as faithful Christians. There is also a special guest who is well-known to our resident doctor members! Please note - this podcast contain…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Bob Black is a legendary bluegrass banjoist, best known for performing & recording with Bill Monroe, Kenny Baker, William Lawson, his current band Banjoy, and many others! He is a true master of the traditional bluegrass style, and was an innovator of the melodic style of playing fiddle tunes on banjo. He is also an aut…

Feeling stuck in your musical career? In this episode, we’re tackling how to make clear, confident decisions that move you forward. We’ll look at why we avoid making choices, how to break through the fear, and simple strategies to pick the path that’s right for you. I’ll share real examples musicians face every day—from auditions to career changes—…

This week, Ben and Sally dissect the astonishing results of the US presidential election. We ask how Trump defied the polls to win a huge victory, what role the abortion debate played in the election, and Trump’s complicated relationships with evangelical Christianity. References: Election exit poll statistics from the Washington Post: https://www.…

In this episode, I sit down with cellist Zlatomir Fung to explore the art of practice, mental resilience, and building a sustainable life in music. We discuss: The importance of mastering fundamentals and balancing them with complex repertoire How to achieve flow state on stage through curiosity and deliberate preparation Strategies for managing in…

Ben and Sally return to the podcast to discuss the recent Assisted Dying Bill introduced to the House of Commons by Kim Leadbeater MP. What are the main moral arguments at play? And how can we, as Christian healthcare professionals, respond well? Please note: The second reading of the Leabdeater Bill is 29 November 2024, not 15 November, as said in…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Brad Campbell began playing professionally when he was just a teenager, and went on to tour, record, and perform with bands such as Gary Adams & the Bluegrass Gentlemen, Wendy Smith & Blue Velvet, and finally landed his dream gig playing with Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. Brad is the very definition of hard-driving bluegr…

In this episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast, I share four pivotal sentences that completely shifted my perspective, challenging deeply held beliefs and unlocking new levels of growth and creativity. These insights helped me overcome limiting beliefs and embrace life’s complexities. If you’re interested in exploring how powerful thoughts can cre…

In this inspiring episode, trombonist Sasha Romero, principal trombone of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, shares her incredible musical journey from Texas to the Met. Sasha talks about her early musical memories, the challenges she faced along the way, and the importance of mindful practice. She opens up about managing ADHD, balancing work with l…

In this episode, we dive into a key feeling that can help you break free from autopilot mode and approach your goals with intention. I discuss: Why many of us fall into routine and how to shift away from it How this feeling drives purposeful action and long-term success Real-life examples from Olympians, musicians, and entrepreneurs who use this mi…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This episode is a new-and-improved remix of Episode #26 from May of 2019, featuring banjo phenom Jens Kruger. Jens is the longtime banjoist and composer with acclaimed bluegrass group The Kruger Brothers, and has inspired a generation of musicians with his dazzling, inventive, and soulful playing. He is also an innovato…

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Molly Gebrian, who has just released her new book, Learn Faster, Perform Better: A Musician’s Guide to the Neuroscience of Practicing. We discuss: The science of learning and memory in music practice and performance The role of errors in learning Internal vs. external focus in performance The power of me…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Johnny Baier is one of the world's foremost performers, entertainers, and educators of the 4-string tenor and plectrum banjos. A true virtuoso and student of the traditions of the instrument, Johnny lays down some serious knowledge for any of you unfamiliar with the 4-string banjo world! He is also the director of the A…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Welcome back to Ned Luberecki, the star of Episode #13! Since our last interview, Ned has continued boldly taking the banjo to places no man has gone before! His primary performing gig is with the Becky Buller Band, which just released "Jubilee" which reached #1 on the Billboard Bluegrass charts! Ned is also a 2024 indu…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Rachael Davis is an incredible singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist - including some mad clawhammer banjo skills! She is currently Nashville-based and has toured far and wide, but she was raised in Michigan, where she became and remains a folk music legend! She is best known for performing & recording her origi…

A particularly important episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast with guest Lara St. John where we discuss the context and impact of sexual abuse, the lack of representation, and how women often don't get the support they need. Lara shares her own experiences and she stresses the need for institutions to step up and create a safe space for everyone…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Randy Barrett is a great banjoist in both 3-finger & clawhammer styles, a singer, songwriter, educator, and author. He is best known for his three solo recordings, and his performances with Big Howdy, a Washington, D.C.-based bluegrass band, and as President of Bluegrass Country Radio. His recent book "On Banjo" was a c…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast In this demonstration episode, Keith runs down the list of all the major effects food groups and gives a live demonstration of what they all sound like with acoustic banjo! 03:01 - Intro, overview of episode 15:15 - Dry Banjo Sound (EMG ACB Barrel pickup through Grace Design Felix Preamp) 16:38 - Octave effect (TC Elect…

Want to escape Stuckville? Unsure how to move forward? Having trouble making decisions? This episode is for you! In this episode, I tackle the reasons why we often feel stuck and share strategies to get unstuck. We explore five core elements that keep us anchored in place: Lack of clear vision and goals Spiraling in regrets and fighting the present…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast With the unexpected passing of banjo legend Jim Mills (December 18, 1966 – May 3, 2024), we revisit this interview originally released as Episode #111. This episode features the incomporable Jim Mills, one of the top banjo players of his generation and a purveyor of the traditional Scruggs-style of playing. Jim has won …

Curious about the mission behind Mind Over Finger? For this special 200th episode, my coach Jennifer Rosenfeld conducts a role reversal and interviews me! We discuss my journey from performer to coach and businesswoman, why I launched the podcast, and my ongoing mission as a content creator. Additionally, we cover: My perspectives on performance an…

Conversation with Rob Knopper, percussionist with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and audition expert, creator of Audition Hacker. You’ll hear about how he painstakingly developed his process (through trials and errors, and lots of reflection), his method to prepare for an audition, and the specifics of how to record yourself for maximum results. …

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Chris Coole has made a name for himself as one of the top clawhammer banjoists in Old Time and Acoustic music. He is best known for playing in bands such as The Lonesome Ace Stringband and the Foggy Hogtown Boys, collaborations with the likes of Ivan Rosenberg, Erynn Marshall, and John Showman, as well as his solo work.…

In this episode of "Mastering the Stage" Part 2, we build on the foundational strategies from Part 1 to further enhance your project planning and execution. We discuss: · Avoiding common planning and execution errors. · Effectively assessing data and setting realistic, balanced goals. · Enhancing mindset and self-awareness to overcome artistic chal…

In this transformative episode, I share powerful strategies that will revolutionize your planning and goal pursuit: Discover what’s been missing in your planning. Learn the key elements that will change everything for you. Understand what works and what doesn't in achieving your goals. Find out how to create real, lasting motivation. Get access the…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This episode features Jim "Wild Jimbo" Pankey, who has played both 3-finger and clawhammer style professionally for many years with the Hamilton County Ramblers and other groups. These days, Jim is a top banjo influencer through his instructional Youtube channel, and has helped thousands of banjoists all over the world …

In this episode, I’m joined by Jalayne Mitchell, founder of Classical Wellness, to discuss key issues surrounding mental health in the music industry. Our conversation covers a range of topics including: The impact of trauma on musicians. Holistic approaches to music careers. Managing self-doubt. The importance of setting healthy boundaries. Busine…

Today's discussion features Dr. Katherine Emeneth, a multifaceted artist in flute performance, collaboration, education, and pedagogy. Key points include: Being intentional about your choices when you’re building your career The future of musicians' careers with a portfolio approach. The need to develop multiple skills to grow your career Overcomin…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This episode features Kevin Kniebel, a talented banjoist, singer, and songwriter who performs and records with the jamgrassy old time band Pert Near Sandstone! PNS brings some great songwriting and arrangements to their high-energy, foot-stomping enthusiastic old timey sound, which makes them one of the top must-see liv…

Gloria Lum, cellist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic & founder of Audition Confidential shares insight on profound audition preparation techniques, talks about the significance of mindset in musical performance, and offers pragmatic practice tips. Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop – Mastering the Stage Download the transcript from this e…

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This episode features Colton Powers, an outstanding bluegrass banjoist and singer, best known for his recordings and performances with Seth Mulder & Midnight Run. Colton also attended East Tennessee State University, where he honed his hard driving banjo picking style! Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Paige Capos, Elderly I…

In this episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast, we explore the art of conditioning for optimal musical performance. Join us as we uncover practical strategies to bridge the gap between practice and stage, empowering musicians to excel in high-pressure situations. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your musical journey, these i…

In this episode, I bring you a conversation with violinist Lynn Kuo, Assistant Concertmaster of the National Ballet of Canada Orchestra and Founder/CEO of Violin with Dr. Lynn. We covered topics such as: The impact a supportive teacher has on a student Performance psychology Improving our playing through mindfulness and self-awareness Practicing wi…

Conversation with David Radzynski, concertmaster of The Cleveland Orchestra, covering topics such his practice habits, violin technique, managing repertoire efficiently, overcoming doubts, and the importance of self-awareness and kindness in our musical journey. Tune in for inspiration for your practice! Sign up now for the brand-new FREE workshop …