Best Sample Library Podcasts (2025)

1
These 5 Small Choices Can Mean Huge Growth 49:56

5d ago49:56

49:56

In this episode, I’m sharing five small daily choices, plus a bonus one, that can quietly shape your growth and long-term success as a production music composer. Plus I feature one of my cues that I KNOW you've heard before, and I give my thoughts on a soft tension cue from 52 Cues member, keschkau. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/M…

1
An Editor Tells Why Great Cues Get Cut! (with Biagio Messina)! 1:46:03

12d ago1:46:03

1:46:03

In this episode, veteran TV producer and editor Biagio Messina joins me to talk about how cues actually get used in real-world productions – and what composers can do to make their music easier to work with. Plus I feature a new uplifting corporate rock cue and give my thoughts on a TV Drama cue from 52 Cues member, James Oakden. Watch this episode…

1
Susan Drockton – The Evolving Role of Accommodations: From Student to Professional 59:23

18d ago59:23

59:23

LSSU Accessibility Services invited LSSU alum Susan Drockton to speak on “The Evolving Role of Accommodations: From Student to Professional” on April 3, 2025. When Susan started college as a...By LakerCast

1
These Climbers Made the Summit of Expedition 52! 1:21:37

19d ago1:21:37

1:21:37

In this episode, I’m joined by composers who completed the 2024 Expedition 52 composer quest – a year-long challenge to write one cue and give one piece of feedback every single week. We talk about what they learned, how they stayed motivated, and how consistency helped them grow! Plus, I’m sharing a new positive ambient drone cue and I'm reviewing…

1
They Went From Returns to Real Placements (with Michael Reschke)! 1:16:40

26d ago1:16:40

1:16:40

Michael and Yuka Reschke were doing everything right… but still felt stuck. In this episode, we talk about what changed, how they found their lane, and how they pushed through when quitting seemed easier. Plus, I’m sharing a new epic rock collaboration and I'm reviewing an emotional cinematic cue from 52 Cues member, Simon Armitage. Watch this epis…

1
This Dramedy Cue Gets Placed Over and Over! 58:44

1M ago58:44

58:44

In this episode, I’m breaking down one of my most placed cues to show what makes a great dramedy cue – and why this quirky genre continues to deliver consistent placements. Plus, I’m sharing a new introspective piano cue and reviewing a modern electro funk cue from 52 Cues neighbor, Corey Dee! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/MmAFNkR…

1
Stop Overthinking Chords with This Simple Tool! 1:07:32

2M ago1:07:32

1:07:32

Struggling with chord choices or feeling overwhelmed by music theory? I’m sitting down with Chordii co-founder Ian McClellan to talk about how this simple tool can help take the guesswork out of harmony. Plus, I’m sharing a new intrigue with hope cue and reviewing a pulsing tension cue from 52 Cues Family member Daniel Rose. Watch this episode on Y…

1
Can Samples Save This Hip-Hop Cue? 49:57

2M ago49:57

49:57

Sometimes a cue just needs a little extra something, so in this episode, I’m jumping into the DAW, opening up Splice and Serato Sample, and showing my real-time process for using loops, one-shots, and sample chopping to enhance a hip-hop cue. Plus, I feature my last Modern Comedy cue and I share my thoughts on a reflective piano cue from 52 Cues Fa…

1
7 Keys to Great Collaborations 1:20:26

2M ago1:20:26

1:20:26

Teaming up with other composers not only lightens the workload, it pushes you creatively and can open doors to opportunities you wouldn’t have on your own. But collaboration only works when it’s done right, so today we’re talking about seven keys to successful co-writing and how to make sure your next collab is a win-win. Plus, we listen to another…

1
Reworking, Repurposing, and Reinventing Your Cues with SCAMPER 1:18:47

2M ago1:18:47

1:18:47

Feeling like all your cues are starting to sound the same? In this episode, we’re talking about the SCAMPER model, a simple but powerful creativity tool that can help you rethink, reshape, and repurpose your music so you can work smarter and keep your ideas fresh. Plus, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on an epic trailer cue by 52 Cues Friend David Gate…

1
Do Sync Composers Need Branding? (with Andy Gesner) 1:05:53

3M ago1:05:53

1:05:53

In this week's episode, I’m joined by Andy Gesner of HIP Video Promo to talk about why personal branding is becoming harder to ignore – and how production music composers can build a presence without feeling like they have to become content creators. Plus, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on an electronic disco/funk cue by 52 Cues Friend Darko Malcevic …

1
Production Music Q&A – LIVE! 1:14:47

3M ago1:14:47

1:14:47

In this week's episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, we're doing a live Ask Me Anything session! I answer questions about sync licensing, production, and composition! We talk about the US Copyright Office's AI ruling, the importance of adding human elements to cues, and what genres are in demand. I also share my approach to mastering stems, how much you …

1
The State of AI in 2025 (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) 51:02

3M ago51:02

51:02

In this week's episode, I’m welcoming back Timothy Andrew Edwards to talk about how AI is already affecting gigs, contracts, and the production music industry – and what composers need to do to protect their careers. Plus, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on a cinematic tension cue by 52 Cues Friend Russ Westfield and featuring a new modern comedy cue I…

1
How to Stay Grounded When Sync Feels Overwhelming 34:24

3M ago34:24

34:24

Today we’re talking all about how the ancient philosophy of stoicism can help production music composers stay grounded, focused, and resilient in the unpredictable world of sync licensing. Plus, I share my thoughts on a dark fantasy cue written by OG 52 Cues member, Enrico Caporale and feature an intrigue with hope cue of my own. Watch this episode…

1
Sync Trends for 2025 (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) 1:26:30

3M ago1:26:30

1:26:30

This week, I’m joined by production music heavyweight, Timothy Andrew Edwards ,to talk about the trends shaping 2025 – from the growing demand for vocal cues to why tension music still reigns supreme and how composers can stay ahead of the game. Plus, I share my own ominous crime tension cue, “Read Between the Crimes,” and give feedback on a neocla…

1
How To Work Smarter, Not Harder 43:22

4M ago43:22

43:22

In this episode, I’m sharing six practical strategies to help you streamline your workflow, save time, and stay creative – from reusing sounds and organizing your library to simplifying your mix and using reference cues for structure. Plus, I review Timothy Ackerman’s cyberpunk cue, "Circuit Breaker!" Do you want to have your cue reviewed on the po…

1
Looking Back on 2024 and What's Ahead for 2025 40:41

4M ago40:41

40:41

On this final episode of the year, I’m reflecting on 2024 – the milestones, lessons learned, and highlights from both my personal journey and the 52 Cues community. Plus, I’ll share a sneak peek into what’s coming in 2025 and the goals I’m setting for the year ahead! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/nlpIut1QVlY Join the 52 Cues Album…

1
The 3 Keys to a Long (and Happy!) Career 23:08

4M ago23:08

23:08

Feeling stuck on what you should be writing? This week, I’m unpacking three keys to building a sustainable and fulfilling career in production music. Plus, I’ll break down my latest NuDisco-inspired cue, Funk Salad Annie! What this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/8Wv4nxo1v-w Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6…

1
Why Does it Take So Long to Get Paid? 25:19

5M ago25:19

25:19

From concept to cash, I’m breaking down the complete timeline of a production music cue so you’ll know exactly what to expect on your path to those sweet royalty checks. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/vVyK-ZvJ20s Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, arti…

1
What Defines the "Mood" in a Cue? 32:31

5M ago32:31

32:31

In today's episode, Dave's talks about mood, and he unpacks how he communicates emotions in his cues by shifting three primary musical elements. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/fVSKlQLLI40 Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which…

1
It's Episode 200! What Have I Learned? 49:43

5M ago49:43

49:43

In this epic 200th episode, Dave shares lessons learned from four years of the 52 Cues Podcast, working towards sustainability, growth, and embracing imperfection. Watch this on YouTube https://youtu.be/puqtb1FP0P0 Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resou…

1
Understanding Ominous Tension 41:34

5M ago41:34

41:34

In this episode, we revisit the art of crafting ominous tension cues as Dave explores the harmonic and rhythmic techniques behind these cues, emphasizing drone-based harmony, slow-moving melodies, and evolving layers. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/_pCP9_MPm7M Friends and Family, join us for the Dramedy Writing Workshop! https://my.…

1
Is Originality Overrated? 49:26

6M ago49:26

49:26

In this episode, Dave questions whether originality is overrated in production music, suggesting that unique expression matters more than being entirely original. He discusses techniques like modeling and referencing to meet industry expectations while staying creatively fulfilled. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/aM5E-wY0rq8 Join th…

1
How to Use Transition SFX 52:01

6M ago52:01

52:01

In this episode, Dave breaks down the art of using SFX like booms, risers, and sweeps to enhance transitions in a cue, demonstrating his approach live on a recent hip-hop track. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/JkeKZQazOLI Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion thread…

1
Professor Ted Walker – “Solving Mysteries of the Renaissance: Leonardo, Michelangelo & Brunelleschi” 1:04:03

6M ago1:04:03

1:04:03

LSSU Library Scholar Series presents “Solving Mysteries of the Renaissance: Leonardo, Michelangelo & Brunelleschi” with Professor Ted Walker. Thursday, September 19, 2024. The most dynamic intellectuals of Renaissance Florence often...By LakerCast

1
Collaboration is King (with Dale Grisa) 1:12:13

6M ago1:12:13

1:12:13

In this episode, Dave welcomes Detroit-based pianist and composer Dale Grisa about his journey from performing thousands of gigs to creating production music and collaborating with top musicians! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/v4SutVFN0Ag https://www.dalegrisa.com Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over …

1
Ask Me Anything! 1:12:00

6M ago1:12:00

1:12:00

It's time for another 52 Cues live Q&A! In this episode, Dave Kropf tackles questions from the community, including whether it’s safe to upload tracks to SoundCloud if they’re already on Spotify, how many cues you need for a sustainable income, and the best way to approach bigger libraries. Plus, thoughts on using tempo changes in cues and the impo…

1
Conferences, Colons, and Storms (Oh My!) 1:15:21

6M ago1:15:21

1:15:21

In today's very special episode of the 52 Cues podcast, Dave welcomes back Mrs. 52 Cues herself, Shannon Kropf, for a discussion about the whirlwind of the past few weeks. No cues, no production music topics this week – just conferences, colonoscopies, and (2!) hurricanes! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/72ZdCTpx0Yo 00:00 - Introduc…

1
One on One with Jason Graves 1:37:45

7M ago1:37:45

1:37:45

In this episode, Dave chats with BAFTA-winning composer Jason Graves, known for his work on blockbuster games like Dead Space, Tomb Raider, and Call of Duty: Warzone. They reminisce about their college days and explore Jason's journey from percussionist to leading industry composer, discussing his creative process and the evolution of game music! M…

1
Writing Epic Hip-Hop for Sports 57:30

7M ago57:30

57:30

In this episode, Dave breaks down his epic hip-hop sports broadcasting cue, "All Up In This," revealing how to create tracks that resonate across various sports platforms. He also shares his eventful week—from preparing for the upcoming Production Music Conference to handling a last-minute request from CBS that didn't go as planned. Stay tuned unti…

1
Christmas In July Winners! 1:06:28

8M ago1:06:28

1:06:28

In this episode, Dave sits down with the winners of the Christmas in July Composer Quest: Jenny Goodspeed, Simon Tong, and Ralph Oleski. They discuss their award-winning tracks, their journeys into the world of production music, and how feedback and community have shaped their creative processes. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/jFwT4…

1
Cue Review – LIVE! 2:19:12

8M ago2:19:12

2:19:12

In this special live podcast episode, Dave reviews cues written by the 52 Cues Community! Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-o…

1
How To Use Story Beats to Structure Trailer Cues 59:29

8M ago59:29

59:29

In this episode, Dave explores the fascinating connection between storytelling and music structure, particularly in trailer cues, and he breaks down how narrative beats, like those found in novels or movies, can apply to the form and structure of production music. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/RVx-NaQLazM Save The Cat! by Blake Sn…

1
What Makes a "Good" Cue? 56:15

8M ago56:15

56:15

In this episode, Dave unpacks the essential elements that make a cue truly stand out in the competitive world of production music. He explores the often-overlooked qualities that can elevate one cue above another and the fundamental components that every professional cue must have. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/_y3L1FBkCj4 Join the…

1
How Do I Stay So Positive? 49:34

9M ago49:34

49:34

In this episode, Dave shares four key strategies he relies on to maintain a positive mindset, even when the music industry throws its toughest challenges his way. He explores practical approaches to staying resilient, from navigating rejection to pushing through setbacks. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/UPxRlnp6Urg The War of Art by…

1
Christmas In July Composer Quest Live! 1:52:19

9M ago1:52:19

1:52:19

In this episode, we host a special live voting session for the Christmas in July Composer Quest, where participants' cues are showcased across three categories: Classic Christmas Magic, High-Energy Holiday, and Acoustic Christmas. Join us as we listen to the submissions, and the community votes on their favorites, with winners receiving exciting pr…

1
How PROs Support Composers (with Erin Collins, SESAC) 1:07:52

9M ago1:07:52

1:07:52

In this episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, Dave welcomes Erin Collins, Senior Vice President of TV/Film and Creative Services for SESAC, to discuss her journey from high school musician to senior executive. They explore the evolving music industry, including streaming, AI, and SESAC's initiatives to support underrepresented composers. Watch this episo…

1
Are Production Music Composers Going Extinct? 54:56

9M ago54:56

54:56

In this episode, we discuss the impact of technology and AI on the production, library, and sync music industry, drawing parallels to the career of Academy Award-winning animator Phil Tippett. We explore the extinction of various aspects of sync over the past decade, highlighting the real need to adapt and evolve. Watch this episode on YouTube! htt…

1
How To Use Your Superpower (with Nathan Toft) 55:03

10M ago55:03

55:03

In this episode, Nathan Toft, winner of the What's Your Superpower Composer Quest, shares his journey into production and library music. He discusses embracing his trombone superpower, recording challenges at home, the limitations of virtual instruments, and breaking out of a creative rut. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/2h1WF-HTnO0…

1
Understanding Orchestral Articulations 1:01:21

10M ago1:01:21

1:01:21

In this episode, we're digging into orchestral articulations in the DAW. We'll be exploring BBCSO, which features a wealth of fantastic articulations, and examining the string, brass, and woodwind sections. I'll demonstrate and unpack various articulations, providing you with insights into their sounds and potential uses. Watch this episode on YouT…

1
Getting Into Film Scoring (with Scott Mclaughlin) 58:54

10M ago58:54

58:54

For many, including myself, film music remains the Holy Grail. While I love writing production music for libraries, scoring to picture is a rewarding and challenging pursuit that I aspire to. So joining me today on the podcast is 52 Cues family member Scott McLaughlin, who is venturing into film music. We discuss his upcoming projects, how he balan…

1
How to Play the DAW Like an Instrument 49:46

10M ago49:46

49:46

In this episode, I discuss why I believe the DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is an instrument and how treating it as such can enhance our creative flow. By learning, performing, and practicing the DAW the same way we would with a traditional instrument, we can compose better and faster and reduce the friction between having an idea and expressing i…

1
Production Music Is A Team Sport 57:16

11M ago57:16

57:16

So I had a crazy idea: what if I invited Family members from the 52 Cues community to come to my house and spend the weekend hanging out and sharing life? Well, this past April, 12 members flew from around the work to join me in Orlando where we cooked, made music, talked shop, and even recorded a podcast episode discussing the importance of commun…

1
More Inconvenient Truths About Production Music 1:05:05

11M ago1:05:05

1:05:05

In this episode, Dave shares five more "Inconvenient Truths" for sync composers, including insights on how to stand out in an increasingly competitive industry, and reveals some hard-to-hear realities every production music composer should know. Plus, we reveal the winner of the "What's Your Superpower" Composer Quest, and Dave talks about rekindli…

1
What's Your Superpower? Composer Quest Live! 53:23

11M ago53:23

53:23

The quest: showcase your particular, extraordinary abilities! Whether your strength lies in crafting compelling rhythms, enchanting melodies, masterful mixing, innovative sound design, or anything in between, in this episode we listen to the 10 submissions and you get to vote! Voting is open through June 9! https://www.52cues.com/vote Watch this ep…

1
I Got Copyright Notices for Using AI Loops 40:26

11M ago40:26

40:26

Now, I know what you're thinking—you’re probably sick of hearing about AI. I know I’m sick of talking about AI and the constant handwringing about it, but recent events have brought AI screaming to the forefront. During a recent live stream, I used Sumo AI to generate a custom reference track, but after the session, I was hit with not one, not two,…

1
Sync Gems, Part 2 (with Roy Matz) 50:22

11M ago50:22

50:22

In this episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, Dave continues his interview with Roy Matz of the Sync Gems podcast and Roy discusses the challenge of overcommitting and the importance of authenticity in the sync industry. He shares how his passion for superhero movies fuels his music career and reflects on balancing creative expression with commercial dem…

1
Sync Gems, Part 1 (with Roy Matz) 52:00

12M ago52:00

52:00

In this episode of the 52 Cues podcast, we chat with Roy Matz of the Sync Gems podcast about his transition from beatboxing to music production and the importance of authenticity in the industry. We explore personal growth, recognizing when to move on from past identities, and the significance of setting goals. Watch this episode on YouTube https:/…

1
Production Music Q&A LIVE! 1:14:12

12M ago1:14:12

1:14:12

In this live Q&A episode of the 52 Cues podcast, Dave tackles questions on the importance of reference tracks, offering tips on using them creatively while analyzing harmonic structures, instrumental textures, and rhythmic languages. He also talks about LUFS targets for quiet music, layering strategies for various cue types, managing low-end freque…

1
5 Career Lessons I Learned from Star Wars 56:42

12M ago56:42

56:42

In this episode, Dave Kropf explores lessons from Star Wars that can be applied to production and library music. He discusses the importance of using references effectively, the developmental journey from novice to expert, and the balance between artistry and commercial viability. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/7yFNZFZ7uqk 00:00 - …

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Sample Library Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen