Best Cinnamontal Podcasts (2025)

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32. Hobbies: Enhancing Creativity and Well-Being for Musicians 8:14

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10M ago8:14

8:14

The Power of Hobbies: Enhancing Creativity and Well-Being for Musicians In this episode of The Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise discusses the challenges of small talk and how delving into non-music related hobbies transformed her music career. By engaging in jewelry making, exploring the world of tea, and embracing fitness, Cinnamon en…

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31. Rehearsal Success: Building Trust and Efficiency 10:40

10M ago10:40

10:40

In this episode of the Music Executive Podcast, hosted by Cinnamon Denise, the focus is on making rehearsals efficient and productive. Cinnamon shares five critical steps to improve rehearsal experiences: making an agenda, being prompt, leaving time for fun, following up with participants, and recording the rehearsal for future review. The episode …

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30. Crafting Music through Moodboards 11:15

11M ago11:15

11:15

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise explores the innovative idea of using mood boards to enhance the music production process. Inspired by a YouTube series from a fashion designer, Cinnamon decided to implement mood boards to visually represent song concepts, aiding in decision-making and creativity. The episode details ste…

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29. Work Smarter Not Harder 14:27

11M ago14:27

14:27

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise addresses the frustration of creating numerous incomplete projects and offers a strategic approach to overcome this cycle. By identifying three key skills and focusing on them exclusively for two to three months, artists can build confidence and see tangible progress. Cinnamon shares her …

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28. Collab Doesn't Mean "Free Work" 10:45

11M ago10:45

10:45

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise explores the concept of ethical collaborations in the music industry, emphasizing the importance of equitable efforts and mutual benefits. Cinnamon outlines three key principles for fostering ethical collabs: being forthcoming and honest, mindful, and nurturing relationships. The episode …

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27. Beginner’s Guide to Open Mics 19:13

12M ago19:13

19:13

In this episode of the Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise provides an in-depth guide on how to prepare for an open mic performance, drawing from her extensive experience as a live sound engineer, host, and musician. Cinnamon offers practical advice on understanding different types of open mics, adhering to venue rules and cultural norms,…

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26. Music Careers You Didn't Know Existed 13:15

1+ y ago13:15

13:15

In this episode of the Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise shares insights into building a sustainable music career by exploring alternative career paths within the industry. Drawing from personal experiences and extensive research, the episode details four unique music-related career options: neuroscientist specializing in music cognitio…

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25. Is It Exposure or Exploitation? 11:13

1+ y ago11:13

11:13

In this episode of the Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise addresses the contentious issue of accepting unpaid gigs in the music industry. She discusses the fine line between valuable exposure and blatant exploitation, providing listeners with practical advice on how to vet opportunities and determine if they are worth taking. Key topics …

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24. Sustainable Career Growth 10:29

1+ y ago10:29

10:29

In this episode of The Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise reflects on the past year and shares insights into thriving in the music industry. She discusses the importance of making the 'next best decision' and drawing inspiration from the resilience and adaptability of salmon. Through personal anecdotes and lessons learned, Sentimental em…

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23. Avoiding Burn Out as a Musician 11:10

2y ago11:10

11:10

In this episode of the Music Executive podcast, host Cinnamon Denise explores how musicians, producers, songwriters, and other creatives in the music industry can avoid burnout. Drawing from personal experience working as a live sound engineer and musician, she breaks down the four identified levels of burnout—pre-burnout, early stage burnout, burn…

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22. From Piano Lessons to Music Tours w/Philip Adair 20:11

2y ago20:11

20:11

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise sits down with incredible pianist Phil Adair. Phil shares his musical journey, starting with early piano lessons, his love for classical and jazz, and his professional growth through jam sessions and music education. The conversation covers Phil's experiences touring and working on variou…

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21. Produce FIRE Content in 5 Steps w/Nakia Peck 12:50

2y ago12:50

12:50

In this episode of The Music Executive, hosted by Cinnamon Denise, listeners are introduced to Nakia Peck, an anointed musician from New Orleans, Louisiana. Nakia shares his journey from growing up in a challenging environment to becoming a skilled multi-genre musician. He reveals the impact of his mentor on his life, the importance of accountabili…

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20. Leveraging Spiritual Belief in Your Career w/Isaiah Hill 17:35

2y ago17:35

17:35

In this episode of 'The Music Executive', host Cinnamon Denise welcomes Isaiah Hill, a self-taught piano player and successful music composer based in Atlanta, Georgia. Isaiah has played for notable artists like Keith Sweat, Monica, and Tamar Braxton. He shares insights about his journey, from learning piano as a child to earning a full tuition sch…

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19. Thriving in Audio Engineering w/Tangela 17:02

2y ago17:02

17:02

In this episode of 'The Music Executive,' host Cinnamon Denise welcomes Tangela, an Austin-based audio engineer with an impressive portfolio, including work on productions like Hamilton and Little Mermaid. Tangela shares her journey from church audio setups to college and professional sound engineering, emphasizing the importance of persistence and…

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18. Touring and Connecting with Audiences w/Infinitus Music 37:04

2y ago37:04

37:04

In this special episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise interviews Infinitus, a critically acclaimed beatboxing string trio known for their unique fusion of classical, hip hop, jazz, and Latin music. The trio, consisting of John, Anthony, and Alex, share their journey from university friends to an innovative musical ensemble. They disc…

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17. Mastering Practice w/ Dustin Fichter 13:10

2y ago13:10

13:10

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise welcomes Dustin Fichter, an Atlanta-based musician known for his guitar skills and diverse collaborations. Raised with a strong jazz background and influenced by his aunt, a violinist for the Atlanta Symphony, Dustin shares his journey into music and the importance of sight reading. The d…

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16. Music Journalism & Audio Storytelling w/J'na Jefferson 15:53

2y ago15:53

15:53

In this episode of 'The Music Executive,' host Cinnamon Denise welcomes guest J'na Jefferson, a New York-based content creator and producer with extensive experience in both print and digital editorial work. J'na shares insights from her journey in journalism, detailing her transition into audio production. She describes her work with Universal Mus…

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15. Building Your Music Career w/Jeff Ralston 22:15

2y ago22:15

22:15

In this episode of 'The Music Executive,' host Cinnamon Denise interviews Jeff Ralston, a talented guitarist and friend. Jeff shares his experiences of moving to Atlanta, transitioning his music career, and how he prepared to succeed in a new city. The discussion covers critical aspects of laying a solid foundation, doing the footwork, and crushing…

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14. Bandleader Strategies w/ Emmanuel 'Chops' Smith 17:17

2y ago17:17

17:17

In this episode, Cinnamon interviews Emmanuel Chops Smith, an accomplished pianist, singer, producer, arranger, and band leader. Emmanuel shares his musical journey from playing in church as a child to leading bands and performing across various genres. The discussion delves into the importance of camaraderie, good pay, and quality music in bands, …

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13. Compose Daily: 30 Songs w/Jenna Funicella 11:03

2y ago11:03

11:03

In this episode of The Music Executive, the host welcomes Jenna Funicella, a high school math teacher who embarked on an impressive songwriting journey. Jenna took on the challenge of writing one song every day in April, a task that tested her creativity and perseverance. She discusses the motivations behind the challenge, the emotional connection …

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12. Inside Voice Over w/ Lena Hill 21:32

2y ago21:32

21:32

In this episode, host Cinnamon Denise interviews professional singer and voiceover actor Lena Hill. The show dives into her career journey from her early days as a singer to becoming a globally recognized voice actor. Lena discusses her experiences working with a mentor, the importance of storytelling in her performances, and her marketing strategi…

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10. Music Meets Blockchain w/Josh Giunta (Love Science Music) 15:31

2y ago15:31

15:31

In this episode, the host dives into an in-depth conversation with Josh Giunta, also known as Love Science Music, an accomplished producer, artist, and studio engineer. Josh discusses his approach to feeling in control both in life and career, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and intuition. He shares insights about his latest projects, inclu…

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11. Build Your Home Studio in 5 Steps w/Patrick Arthur 21:38

2y ago21:38

21:38

In this episode of 'The Music Executive,' host Cinnamon Denise welcomes guest Patrick Arthur, a seasoned guitarist, mixing engineer, and producer, to discuss the essentials of starting a home recording studio. The episode covers the importance of having a digital audio workstation (DAW), audio interface, and microphones. Patrick shares his journey …

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9. Women in Audio w/Lisa Machac 22:45

2y ago22:45

22:45

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise speaks with Lisa Machac, musician and director of the Omni Sound Project. Lisa delves into her journey from recording an album in a pickup truck to establishing Omni Sound Project, an organization dedicated to creating accessible entry points into music and audio industries. They discuss …

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8. Grow Your YouTube Channel w/Dave Pollack 27:25

2y ago27:25

27:25

In this episode of The Music Executive, Cinnamon Denise speaks with New Jersey-based saxophonist and YouTuber Dave Pollack. The discussion covers Pollack's musical journey, from his early days learning piano and saxophone to his current dual roles as a middle school band teacher and content creator. Dave shares his insights on maintaining consisten…

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7. Mastering the Cold Email w/Justina Shandler 10:51

2y ago10:51

10:51

In this episode, we talk about how to write an email to a person that you don’t know, that quite frankly, you need something from. Whether that something be a connection or a foot in the door, cold email is HARD. Justina talks about some of her email hacks that have landed her some deals. A songwriter for media/sync, and teacher at the University o…

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6. How To Create an Inclusive Studio Space w/Jam Phelps 15:35

2y ago15:35

15:35

In this episode, of 'The Music Executive,' host talks with Jam Phelps, the owner and founder of Denk Studios in Durham, North Carolina. Jam, a mixing and mastering engineer, shares her journey from being trained by her audio engineer father to becoming a full-time studio owner. She emphasizes the importance of avoiding 'gear lust' and the value of …

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5. Explore Conscious Creation w/Luna Asé 13:27

2+ y ago13:27

13:27

In this episode of The Music Executive, Cinnamon Denise welcomes Los Angeles-based conscious content creator Luna Asé. Luna Asé discusses her journey of becoming a conscious artist through TikTok, emphasizing heart-centered content and the importance of intention and balance. She touches on her morning rituals, including affirmations and meditation…

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4. How I Became A Commissioned Songwriter 5:41

2+ y ago5:41

5:41

In this episode, Cinnamon Denise shares her inspiring journey of becoming a commissioned songwriter for Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Incorporated. She recounts the creation of the official national song for her sorority (Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc.), which she initially wrote in her car in 2016. Despite a non-linear path, th…

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3. Innovating Music Production w/Early Bird 12:11

2+ y ago12:11

12:11

This episode features Early Bird, an electronic music producer who shares how overcoming injury shaped her creative process and unique sound. She discusses her new EP "Soft Colors," her approach to sound design, and her work supporting fellow independent artists. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience and innovation in music. Send The Music E…

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2. Shouldn't I have a Grammy By Now?! 7:03

3y ago7:03

7:03

In this episode, Cinnamon Denise shares some encouragement for anyone navigating their music career. She reflects on her journey, achievements, and challenges - including maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships and mental health. Despite the struggles, Cinnamon Denise emphasize the importance of resilience, learning, and never giving up on …

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1. Yoga: The Secret to Enhancing Your Musical Skills 15:28

3y ago15:28

15:28

Cinnamon Denise returns after a long break to discuss the importance of yoga for musicians in this episode. Drawing from her decade-long experience in yoga practice and teaching, she highlights the benefits of pranayama (breath control) for controlling nerves and enhancing performance for wind instrumentalists, singers, and other musicians. She als…