Episodes
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In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes monitor engineer Lizzie Westsmith who has worked for numerous bands and sound companies including Rancid, Ice Spice, Rat Sound and Coachella. Lizzie shares her journey from discovering her love for audio at Berkeley's iconic Gilman Street to navigating the challenges of the live production industry.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Role of a Monitor Engineer
Maintaining Personal Balance
924 Gilman Influence
Addiction and Recovery
Rate Transparency
Touring Life Balance
Systems Engineering Goals
Financial Management Strategies
Community and Respect
Links and Show Notes:
Lizzie on Instagram
Matt's Rant: Parlay, Pivot and Change Course
Credits:
Guest: Lizzie Westsmith
Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
The Voice: Chuck Smith -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Producer/Engineer Ed Donnelly, who has worked with Willie Nelson, Zac Brown, Old 97s, Son Volt, Del McCoury, Nathan Jacques, Lorin Hart, Cole Gallagher, The Lonesome Captain, Trent Summar & The New Row Mob
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Musical Journey and Career
Live Event Recording Journey
Journey From Performer to Producer
Independent Artist Budget Challenges
Managing Budgets in Independent Bands
Music Industry Evolution and Strategy
Inspiration and Approaches in Work
Independent Artists and Audio Professionals
Immersive Audio Formats and Music
Links and Show Notes:
Ed's Studio
Matt's Rant: Revisiting Community
Credits:
Guest: Ed Donnelly
Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
The Voice: Chuck Smith -
Episodes manquant?
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In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back mastering engineer Maor Appelbaum (originally on WCA #062)to discuss his career, his approach to mastering across genres, and how he adapts to new technology. Maor has worked on projects for artists such as Faith No More, Yes, and Meat Loaf.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Genre-specific mastering approaches
Creating and collaborating on new analog hardware
Strategies for effective client communication
Building and maintaining long-term professional relationships
The value of being part of a collaborative team in the audio process
Links and Show Notes:
Maor Appelbaum Mastering
WCA #062 with Maor Appelbaum
Matt's Rant: The Value of Independent Clients
Credits:
Guest: Maor Appelbaum
Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
The Voice: Chuck Smith -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt reconnects with engineer and studio owner Jeremy Goody, who was last featured in Episode 85. Jeremy has worked on VO projects for Microsoft, Nuance, Google, Seasonal Visions, and music projects for John Santos, Anticon, and Winfred E. Eye.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Studio Rebranding
Battling Cell Towers
Building Faraday Cages
Shifting to Voice Recording
Podcasting
Links and Show Notes:
Jeremy's Studio
25th Street Recording
John Vanderslice on WCA
Adobe Podcast Tools
Neutrik EMC Series
Filmic Double Take
Essentialism on Audible (I really like this one)
The Compound Effect on Audible
Switch on Audible
Day Trading Attention on Audible
Credits:
Guest: Jeremy Goody
Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
The Voice: Chuck Smith -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt reconnects with Grammy-winning producer and engineer J.J. Blair, last featured in Episode 96. J.J. shares the challenges of building a state-of-the-art recording studio in the Hollywood Hills and offers insights from his popular "Microphone Mondays" series. He also opens up about his recent heart surgery and recovery, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing health in a demanding profession.
J.J.'s impressive credits include producing and mixing the Grammy-winning album Press On by June Carter Cash, engineering Rod Stewart's Grammy-winning and #1 Billboard album The Great American Songbook, Vol. 3, and engineering and mixing Joanna Connor's #1 Billboard Blues album, 4801 South Indiana Avenue.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
"Microphone Mondays" series
Building a state-of-the-art recording studio
Acoustic design, soundproofing, and the science of great studio environments
Incorporating vintage and modern gear, including a custom Rupert Neve console
Adapting production techniques for genres from Motown to modern rock
Reflections on heart surgery, health, and maintaining resilience in the industry
The importance of studying hit productions and what makes songs stand out
J.J.'s experience with social media success and connecting with audiences
Links and Show Notes:
J.J. on Instagram
J.J.'s Website
Credits:
Guest: J.J. Blair
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt talks with Paul "Willie Green" Womack, a producer, engineer, and professor based in Brooklyn, NY. With nearly two decades of experience, Willie shares his passion for hip-hop production, teaching, and building meaningful connections in the studio. Having worked with renowned artists such as Armand Hammer, The Roots, The Alchemist, and Wiz Khalifa, Willie provides an insider's perspective on balancing artistry with the technical demands of audio production.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Teaching Hip-Hop History and Vocal Production
Remote Education and In-Person Dynamics
Building a Studio in Brooklyn
Mentoring Upcoming Artists
Bridging Creativity and Technical Expertise
The Role of Community in Creative Spaces
Balancing Work and Passion Projects
The Unique Challenges of Teaching During COVID
Willie's Journey from Engineer to Educator
Matt's Rant: Blank Spaces
Links and Show Notes:
Willie Green's Website
Credits:
Guest: Paul "Willie Green" Womack
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt discusses Julie Kahryns extensive experience in the music industry as a producer, sound designer, composer, and educator. With a background spanning from criminal justice to a full-time music career, Julie has worked on a wide range of projects, including crafting unique audio samples for top software companies such as Ableton, Output, Cherry Audio, Splice, and Bandlab, as well as supervising music for films, and composing original scores.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Career Shift From Justice
Roles: Producer, Composer, Designer
Teaching at Berklee NYC
Early Music Influences
Mentor Tony Conniff's Guidance
Learning Logic Pro
Income From Samples
Film Music Supervision
Balancing Creativity and Business
Parenthood's Career Impact
Building Artist Confidence
Collaborative Mixing Work
Income Diversification
Influences: Brian Eno, Laurie Anderson
Film Scoring Techniques
Matt's Rant: Your Health
Links and Show Notes:
Julie's Site (iamsnowangel.com)
Credits:
Guest: Julie Kathryn
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell -
In this episode, Matt talks with Will Holland, owner of Chill House, a 2,000-square-foot studio in Charlestown, Massachusetts. Will has worked with acts like SeepeopleS, Club d'Elf, Nth Power, Berklee, and the Lowell Chamber Orchestra.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Chill House Studio Location
2,000 Square Feet Space
Multiple Studio Rooms
Local, Mid-Level Clients
Will's Boston Beginnings
Internship Turned Career
Ownership Advantages Discussed
Low Overhead Emphasized
Word-of-Mouth Marketing
Work-Life Balance Focus
Future Relocation Possible
Classic Rock Influence
Staying Young
Setting Rates
Matt's Rant: Following Up!
Links and Show Notes:
Will's Studio
Credits:
Guest: Will Holland
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau welcomes back audio engineer David, initially featured in WCA #210. David dives into his journey since his last interview, sharing updates on his Portland-based studio move, reflections on the city's music scene post-COVID, and how the pandemic shifted industry dynamics. David offers insights on balancing live sound with studio recording, the adaptive approaches required in today's music landscape, and how Portland's music community is showing resilience in challenging times. David has worked with fourhundred, Lucid Aisle, Storm Large, Kelly Koval, Joshua Lowe and the Juncos.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Relocating Studio Spaces and Adapting to New Work Environments
Post-COVID Shifts in Portland’s Music Scene and Industry-Wide Changes
Balancing Live Sound, Studio Recording, and Creative Roles
Community Support, Artist Resilience, and Collaborative Culture in Portland
Freelance Audio Strategies: Workflow Tips, Gear Decisions, and Client Relations
Navigating New Music Production Trends and Managing Technical Challenges
Challenges in Sustaining a Music Career in a Changing Industry Landscape
Matt's Rant: Refuse to Giveup
Links and Show Notes:
David's First Appearance on WCA
Justin Phelps from Hallowed Halls
David's Site
Credits:
Guest: David Streit
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, recorded live at AES 2024 in New York, Christal Jerez shares her career journey from Los Angeles to the UK. She discusses her experiences in live and studio sound, her move to the UK for a PhD, and the challenges of balancing motherhood with freelance work. Christal has worked with artists such as Lil Kim, Malik Moses, Al-Doms, and Timi O.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Move to the UK: Christal relocated to earn a PhD for the Andrew Scheps Music Production Scholarship, focused on immersive audio, supported by her family.
Immersive Audio: Passion for 3D sound and binaural audio, working with psychoacoustic experts at NYU.
Early Inspirations: Grew up in LA, influenced by family gatherings and VH1 documentaries.
Education Path: Studied audio production in university, learned hands-on through radio station work recording live bluegrass music.
Career Growth: Mentored by Serge Tsai at Platinum Sound, rising from assistant to freelance engineer. Focused on client relationships and studio professionalism.
Challenges as a Woman in Audio: Faced bias and underrepresentation in the industry. Emphasized importance of mentorship and resilience.
Balancing Work & Motherhood: Struggled to balance freelance work with being a mother, setting boundaries to manage family and career.
Matt’s Rant: AES 2024 Debrief
Links and Show Notes:
Christal's Sonic Lab
AES 2025 in Long Beach
Credits:
Guest: Christal Jerez
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau chats with veteran producer and engineer Joel Jaffe, founder of Studio D Recording. Joel reflects on his 40-year journey running a renowned Bay Area studio, working with legendary artists like Faith No More and Huey Lewis, and perfecting live room recording techniques. He also shares insights on overcoming the challenges of studio life, the evolving music industry, and his decision to step away from day-to-day operations, or as Matt puts it, “getting out of the chair.”
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Challenges of running a studio in the Bay Area
Building and managing Studio D Recording
Recording techniques for live rooms and handling isolation
Working with iconic artists like Faith No More, Huey Lewis, and Soundgarden
The impact of streaming and the changing music industry
Balancing a 40-year career with family life
Lessons learned from mentors and iconic engineers
Advice for aspiring audio engineers and producers
Shifting from studio ownership to freelance work
Matt’s Rant: Revisiting Putting Yourself Out There
Links and Show Notes:
Studio D Recording
Joel Jaffe on Wikipedia
Credits:
Guest: Joel Jaffe
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau talks with Grammy-nominated recording engineer and educator Dr. Mary Mazurek about her work in classical music recording and her approach to teaching and mentoring.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Grammy-nominated projects
Challenges of recording classical music
Microphone techniques for live performances
Managing acoustics in different environments
Mentoring young engineers
Practical learning in audio
Evolution of audio technology
Moving to Canada
Summers in Chicago
Matt’s Rant: The most important thing is what comes out of the speakers!
Links and Show Notes:
Dr. Mary Mazurek's Faculty Profile
Mary Mazurek's previous WCA episode #253
Credits:
Guest: Dr. Mary Mazurek
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, we welcome back Engineer/Producer Gabriel Shepard, who first appeared on WCA #011. Now, 500 episodes later, Gabriel returns to share more from his journey. Gabriel's impressive client list includes Cake, The Kronos Quartet, Bassnectar, Raphael Saadiq, and The Residents.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
25th Street Recording
Building Client Trust
Creative Collaboration
Crafting Signature Sound
Navigating Industry Changes
Freelance Persistence
Audio Gear Insights
Mixing Strategies
Studio Workflow
Client Communication
Recording Challenges
Evolving Sound Trends
Learning from Other Producers
Earning Fans of Your Work
Matt's Rant: Covid!
Links and Show Notes
Gabriel's Site
25th Street Recording Studio
Original WCA #011 with Gabriel
WCA #073 with John Schimpf
WCA #249 with Jeff Kolhede
WCA #005 with John Cuniberti
WCA #290 with Joe Chiccarelli
Credits
Guest: Gabriel Shepard
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Steve Lack shares his extensive background in audio post-production and podcasting. Steve reflects on his time working with Warner Brothers Discovery and his contributions to iconic shows like Seinfeld. With experience at NPR, VPM, Al Jazeera, and HBO, Steve now operates remotely from Richmond, Virginia. He discusses the flexibility of podcasting and how his journey from network television to podcasting has shaped his approach to building lasting client relationships.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Freelancing Journey Shifts
Early Adoption Of Pro Tools
Discovery Channel Experience
Remote Podcast Production
Transition From Drumming To Film Composition
Midlife Career Pivot
Freedom In Podcasting
Networking And Relationships
Working From A Sailboat
Overcoming Corporate Mergers
Embracing Technological Changes
Matt's Rant: Learning to Swim First
Links and Show Notes
Steve's Site
Acon DeReverberate
Accentize Plugins
Credits
Guest: Steve Lack
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, mastering engineer Alberto de Icaza shares his journey from Mexico City to the U.S., transitioning from playing in metal bands to becoming a mastering engineer. Now based in Austin, Texas, Alberto discusses his path to mastering during the pandemic and the importance of building client relationships organically through word-of-mouth.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
AI Tools Usage
Mastering Career Shift
Industry Challenges
Impact Of AI On Work
Client Relations
Networking Expansion
Spanish Market Strategy
Social Media Promotion
Professional Collaborations
Remote Work Preference
Cash Flow Management
Studio Setup
Adapting To New Tech
Working With Key Mentors
Crashing His Car
From Mexico to New Jersey, to Texas
Matt's Rant: All The Other Stuff
Links and Show Notes
Alberto's Site
Steve Chadie on WCA #245
Steve Chadie on WCA #487
Credits
Guest: Alberto de Icaza
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith -
In this episode of Working Class Audio, host Matt Boudreau welcomes back Cesar Mejia, a longtime friend of the podcast, to discuss his continued journey as an educator, studio owner, and audio professional. Cesar, first featured in episode #117 back in 2017, shares his experiences navigating the post-pandemic world, teaching the next generation of musicians, and balancing life at his studio, Shelter Studios.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Cesar Mejia's Return to Podcast: Reflecting on his first appearance in 2017, episode 117, and discussing his journey.
Teaching Post-COVID: Cesar talks about teaching at Cal State Dominguez Hills and Whittier College, highlighting changes in student mentality and the shift in teaching due to the pandemic.
Students' Musical Preferences: Discussing the differences between students at Dominguez Hills, who are more electronic-focused, and those at Whittier, who are often acoustic musicians.
Shelter Studios and Family Property: Cesar's studio, Shelter Studios, is located on family property that he inherited. He is working on possibly expanding the space while keeping the studio comfortable and home-like.
Balancing Expansion and Stability: Conversations about the benefits of expanding the studio or staying in the current location and the importance of financial stability.
Wiring and Additional Gigs: In addition to teaching and studio work, Cesar occasionally takes on wiring gigs for other studios, keeping his income diversified.
Collaboration with Herbie Hancock: Cesar continues to work with Herbie Hancock, especially on tours post-COVID, and handles audio tasks such as mixing stems for live performances.
Matt's Rant: Being in Asset
Links and Show Notes
The Shelter Studios
The Shelter on Instangram
WCA Episode #117 with Cesar Mejia
Credits
Guest: Cesar Mejia
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith -
My guest for this episode is Producer/Engineer/ Composer Ebonie Smith, who currently holds the esteemed roles of senior audio engineer and producer at Atlantic Records. Ebonie has worked on projects for The Hamilton Cast Album, Janelle Monae, Sturgill Simpson, and Jason Mraz.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Memphis Upbringing and Tri-State Area
Radio and Musical Influences
Transition from Sports to Music
College Struggles and Musical Pursuit
Technological Fascination and Audio
Barnard College Audio Tech Job
Pursuit of Music Technology
Parental Expectations vs. Music
NYU and Advanced Music Studies
Career Start at Atlantic Records
Evolution from Editing to Producing
Hamilton Cast Recording Involvement
Creating an Incubator Program
Move to Los Angeles Decision
Differences Between NYC and LA
Atlantic Records Role Transformation
Producing Unique Label Projects
Challenges in the Music Industry
Importance of Administrative Proficiency
Balancing Multiple Creative Roles
A Continuing Passion for Audio
Multitasking Is a Necessity
Full Control of the Signal Chain
Matt's Rant: Making Opportunity For Yourself
Links and Show Notes
Ebonie's Site
Credits
Guest: Ebonie Smith
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith -
My guests today are Wesley Heaton and Kameron Lockwood, producers, engineers, and mixers from Indianapolis, Indiana. They are studio partners at Holy Ground Productions and have extensive live sound experience working with bands like Bingo Boys, Skeletonwitch Rituaal, and Pillars.
In this episode, we discuss:
Studio Location And Name
Early Friendship Timeline
Growing Up Experiences
Meeting Through Audio
Live Sound Frustrations
Musical Background Origins
Gear Acquisition Journey
First Paid Recordings
Studio Environment Challenges
DIY Venue Recordings
Recording School Experiences
Self-Education In Audio
Recording With Anthrax
Transition From Live Sound
Studio Construction Challenges
Importance Of Deposits
Business Partnership Dynamics
Studio Community Focus
Lessons From First Studio
Hospitality And Client Comfort
Matt's Rant: Perfection
Links and Show Notes
Holy Ground Productions
Holy Ground on Instagram
Credits
Guest: Wesley Heaton and Kameron Lockwood
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith -
My guest today is Mastering Engineer Ben Pike, who runs an analog-based mastering and record cutting studio in Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK. Ben specializes in vinyl mastering and custom lathe cut records, working primarily with independent artists. He has collaborated with artists and groups such as ATA Records, Yaatri, The London Ambient Orchestra, Smith & The Honey Badgers, and King Zepha.
In this episode, we discuss:
Leeds, West Yorkshire Roots
Discovering Recording Technology
DIY Recording Beginnings
Home Studio Evolution
Transition to Mastering
Vinyl Mastering Journey
Analog Studio Setup
Custom Lathe Cut Records
Challenges of Chronic Illness
Building a Mastering Studio
Navigating the Music Industry
Supporting Independent Artists
Small Batch Vinyl Production
Innovative Vinyl Techniques
Mastering and Cutting Synergy
Restoring Vintage Gear
Matt's Rant: The Art of Being Concise
Links and Show Notes
Ben Pike's Studio: Rare Tone Mastering
Jeff Powell Companion Episode
Credits
Guest: Ben Pike
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith -
My guest today is Producer/Multi-Instrumentalist/Engineer, Jordan Brooke Hamlin, who has worked with Indigo Girls, KT Tunstall, Vienna Teng, Lila Blue, Katie Herzig, Lucy Wainwright Roche, Allison Russell, and Brandy Clark.
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In this episode, we discuss
Upbringing In Kentucky
Music-Loving Family
Zeppelin Hippies
Deep Connection To Music
Early Music Exposure
Discovery Of Production
Sarah McLachlan Influence
Running Her Studio
Creating Artist Space
Mental Health Focus
Challenges In Nashville
Supportive Studio Environment
Economic Challenges
Studio Setup Efficiency
Working With Labels
Navigating Industry Changes
Moxie Studio Origin
Residential Studio Blend
Artist Commune Vision
Reclaiming Neglected Land
Importance Of Environment
Balancing Creativity And Deadlines
Nashville's Music Culture
Contrasting With Los Angeles
Session Efficiency Vs. Exploration
Encouraging Artistic Risk
Challenges In Studio Ownership
Supporting Independent Artists
Grant Programs For Artists
Gender Equity In The Audio Industry
Financial Pressures On Music
Organizational Tools (Airtable)
Payment Delays From Labels
Navigating Professional Relationships
Empathy For Touring Artists
Evolving Industry Dynamics
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Matt's Rant: Getting Organized
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Links and Show Notes
Book Matt mentions in Interview: Day Trading Attention
AirTable
Jordan's Studio
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Credits
Guest: Jordan Brooke Hamlin
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith - Montre plus
