Life With Strings Attached

Jamie Gale

Everything in life is better understood if you can learn to see the strings attached.Jamie Gale is a thought leader who rose to prominence in the guitar industry by simplifying complex concepts. In this podcast, he engages in cross-disciplinary discussions to reveal how everything from guitar design to architecture, philosophy, physics and more can be better understood if you learn to see the universal truths that underpin our world.

  1. 1D AGO

    John Mlynczak (CEO) on NAMM's Future

    This week, I’m joined again by John Mlynczak, CEO of NAMM. With the NAMM Show 2025 right around the corner, we talk about what it really takes to lead the world’s largest music trade organisation in a time of rapid change. John shares insights on how NAMM is more than just a show, it’s a mission-driven association that serves and strengthens the global music products industry all year round. From policy and tariffs to cultural insights in music making, member engagement, and even the implications of AI, John helps us understand what it means to truly serve the needs of an industry. We also explore the deeper side of leadership: Investing in people, being honest about challenges, and staying curious in uncertain times. It’s always a privilege to have John on the podcast, and I’m excited for you to hear his perspective on where NAMM (and our industry) are heading next. Watch the video version on YouTube: 🔗 YouTube Channel – Life With Strings Attached Learn more about Life With Strings Attached and Boutique Guitar Showcase: 🔗 Boutique Guitar Showcase Support the deeper conversations: 🔗 The Business of Guitar – Patreon Thank you for listening and supporting the ongoing conversation between music, makers, history and the future.

    1h 41m

  2. NOV 7

    Biography | The Story of Andy Manson

    Welcome to another special Life With Strings Attached 'Biography' episode. Today, we trace the incredible life of legendary luthier Andy Manson, a craftsman shaped as much by chaos and curiosity as by chisels and wood.  From building forts as a child in Hertfordshire to busking through Europe with a self-made guitar, Andy’s journey to becoming one of the most respected voices in luthiery is anything but ordinary. In this deep dive, Andy shares the pivotal moments that defined him, his rebellious school years, early instrument builds, the influence of his tool-making ancestors, and the spark that led to his famed collaborations, including with John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin.  It’s a tale of craft, character, and creative resilience. A reminder that artistry is born not from luxury, but from living. Watch the video version on YouTube: 🔗 YouTube Channel – Life With Strings Attached Learn more about Life With Strings Attached and Boutique Guitar Showcase: 🔗 Boutique Guitar Showcase Support the deeper conversations: 🔗 The Business of Guitar – Patreon Thank you for listening and supporting the ongoing conversation between music, makers, history and the future.

    2h 7m

  3. OCT 31

    From A Vision To Jimmy Page’s Hands: Randy Parson’s Journey

    In this episode we visit a century-old church in the heart of Kansas, now transformed into the creative sanctuary of luthier Randy Parsons. Randy’s story is one of risk, reinvention, and the courage to live life outside the lines. We talk about creativity, faith, music, and the strange moments of luck that shape our paths. This is a story about following your calling, even when it doesn’t make sense to anyone else. Enjoy. Find Randy's work here:  https://www.facebook.com/p/Parsons-Guitars-100064000387176/ https://www.randyparsons.net/ https://www.instagram.com/parsonsguitars/ Watch the video version on YouTube: 🔗 YouTube Channel – Life With Strings Attached Learn more about Life With Strings Attached and Boutique Guitar Showcase: 🔗 Boutique Guitar Showcase Support the deeper conversations: 🔗 The Business of Guitar – Patreon Thank you for listening and supporting the ongoing conversation between music, makers, history and the future.

    42 min

  4. OCT 24

    From Repair Bench to Research Lab: Bryan Galloup Redefines the Guitar

    Welcome to Life With Strings Attached! In this episode we explore the evolving world of guitar making, where craftsmanship meets innovation. From the floor of guitar shows to the heart of the workshop, we reflect on how artistry, science, and sound continue to shape our musical culture. We pay tribute to the late Ken Parker, a visionary who redefined what a guitar could be. We also discuss the ongoing quest for authenticity, from the design bench to the stage. Along the way, we dive into Project Dreadnought, the future of tonewood research, and the emotional connection that keeps makers and musicians inspired. This is a conversation about legacy, curiosity, and the art of building guitars that move both heart and mind. Watch the video version on YouTube: 🔗 YouTube Channel – Life With Strings Attached Learn more about Life With Strings Attached and Boutique Guitar Showcase: 🔗 Boutique Guitar Showcase Support the deeper conversations: 🔗 The Business of Guitar – Patreon Thank you for listening and supporting the ongoing conversation between music, makers, history and the future.

    1h 37m

  5. OCT 17

    Graph Tech: How Dave Dunwoodie Revolutionized Guitar Technology

    ** Whoops! It seems we've forgotten to cut out the end of the podcast, which is usually reserved for the members of our Patreon 'Business of Guitar'. Oh well, we're happy to give everyone a glimpse into what they're missing... 😉  Find out more here: https://www.patreon.com/thebusinessofguitar On this episode of Life With Strings Attached we welcome Dave Dunwoodie, founder of Graph Tech Guitar Labs Ltd. and one of the great innovators in guitar technology.  From solving the problem of strings sticking in the nut to creating breakthroughs like TUSQ, Ratio Tuners, and String Saver saddles, Dave’s work has shaped how guitars sound and play worldwide.  His story is one of persistence, curiosity, and purpose-driven design, showing how even the smallest guitar components can transform music. Join us as we explore the journey of a musician turned entrepreneur whose ideas continue to inspire the industry.  Find Dave's work here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-dunwoodie-a234308/ https://graphtech.com/ https://www.instagram.com/graphtechguitarlabs/ https://www.youtube.com/user/GraphTechGuitarLabs https://www.facebook.com/GraphTech/ Watch the video version on YouTube: 🔗 YouTube Channel – Life With Strings Attached Learn more about Life With Strings Attached and Boutique Guitar Showcase: 🔗 Boutique Guitar Showcase Support the deeper conversations: 🔗 The Business of Guitar – Patreon Thank you for listening and supporting the ongoing conversation between music, makers, history and the future.

    1h 38m

  6. OCT 10

    Biography | The Story of Michael Spalt

    In this special Life With Strings Attached biography episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Michael Spalt. Guitar builder, sculptor, and creative force who’s redefined what a guitar can be.  From his roots in Vienna and early fascination with music and film, to his innovative Totem guitars and the founding of the Holy Grail Guitar Show and EGB, Michael has merged art, craftsmanship, and community like few others. In this intimate conversation, Michael opens up about working in Hollywood, his disillusionment with the industry, the tactile satisfaction of building instruments, and his lifelong quest to blend narrative and function in his creations Find Michael's work here:  https://www.spaltinstruments.com/ https://www.michaelspalt.com/ https://www.instagram.com/spaltinstruments/ https://www.boutiqueguitarshowcase.com/michael-spalt-guitars https://www.facebook.com/spaltinstruments/ Watch the video version on YouTube: 🔗 YouTube Channel – Life With Strings Attached Learn more about Life With Strings Attached and Boutique Guitar Showcase: 🔗 Boutique Guitar Showcase Support the deeper conversations: 🔗 The Business of Guitar – Patreon Thank you for listening and supporting the ongoing conversation between music, makers, history and the future.

    1h 5m

  7. OCT 4

    Biography | The Story of Ulrich Teuffel

    In this special segment of our Luthier’s Story series we’re honoured to feature Ulrich Teuffel, visionary in the world of guitar design whose work challenges convention and redefines what it means to build an instrument. Ulrich’s guitars are more than tools for music, they are philosophical statements. Each crafted with a deep respect for wood, sound, and the courage it takes to break from tradition.  In this conversation, we dive into the soul of Teuffel Guitars, uncovering how custom components, material integrity, and artistic intent converge in his unique creations. Find Ulrich's work here:  https://www.teuffel.com/ https://www.instagram.com/teuffelguitars/ https://www.facebook.com/teuffel.guitars/ Watch the video version on YouTube: 🔗 YouTube Channel – Life With Strings Attached Learn more about Life With Strings Attached and Boutique Guitar Showcase: 🔗 Boutique Guitar Showcase Support the deeper conversations: 🔗 The Business of Guitar – Patreon Thank you for listening and supporting the ongoing conversation between music, makers, history and the future.

    1h 2m

  8. SEP 26

    The Art of Curation in Music Retail, with Joe Caruso of The Music Emporium

    Today on Life With Strings Attached, we’re joined by Joe Caruso of The Music Emporium in Boston: a shop that has become legendary for its thoughtful curation and deep respect for the guitar as both an instrument and a cultural icon.  In this conversation, Joe and I explore the parallels between the artisan guitar movement and the craft traditions of furniture making, the balance between heritage and innovation in guitar design, and the importance of caring for the customer experience in retail.  We’ll talk about vintage instruments and their unique stories, the challenges of navigating resale value, and how community, passion, and relationships remain the true currency of the guitar world. Watch the video version on YouTube: 🔗 YouTube Channel – Life With Strings Attached Learn more about Life With Strings Attached and Boutique Guitar Showcase: 🔗 Boutique Guitar Showcase Support the deeper conversations: 🔗 The Business of Guitar – Patreon Thank you for listening and supporting the ongoing conversation between music, makers, history and the future.

    2h 19m
See All (82)

About

Everything in life is better understood if you can learn to see the strings attached.Jamie Gale is a thought leader who rose to prominence in the guitar industry by simplifying complex concepts. In this podcast, he engages in cross-disciplinary discussions to reveal how everything from guitar design to architecture, philosophy, physics and more can be better understood if you learn to see the universal truths that underpin our world.

Information

  • Creator
    Jamie Gale
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    82
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Life With Strings Attached
  • Show Website
    Life With Strings Attached

You Might Also Like