The Lower Your Shoulder podcast

Lower Your Shoulder

Welcome to The Lower Your Shoulder podcast, hosted by Ben McKelvey and Jake Robbins! Join us as we peel back the curtain on all our releases, share the untold stories behind our music projects, and reflect on our lifelong friendship and tales from tour. Need a boost? We’ve got you covered with motivational episodes fueled by our passion for fitness and creativity. Get ready to laugh, be inspired, and gain exclusive insights into the world of Lower Your Shoulder – your ultimate destination for music and fitness enthusiasts alike! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. 08/07/2024

    Doubt Kills. Why Now?

    Ben McKelvey and Jake Robbins discuss the launch of their band, Doubt Kills. They share the challenges encountered during production, such as adapting to new equipment and filming in cold weather for their first skit. The duo highlights the importance of authentic and humourous lyrics in conveying their message effectively. Inspired by bands like Pup and Motion City Soundtrack, they discuss how their age and life experiences add authenticity to their music. Ben and Jake delve into their evolving creative process, from collaborative lyric writing to incorporating humour into their work. They hint at future plans to expand beyond music, expressing desire to create a full blown comedy series to support their music. Chapters 0:00 - Introduction to Lower Your Shoulder podcast 2:37 - Discussing the origins of Doubt Kills on Instagram 4:35 - Reflecting on the early stages of forming a band 12:08 - Transitioning to writing music and creating a sound 24:14 - Importance of a structured lyric writing process 28:37 - Planning and filming the first skit "The Bench" 30:39 - Reflecting on the confidence gained through creating skits 33:29 - The significance of timing in creating authentic music 35:42 - Utilising various media to promote the music effectively Hosted by: Ben McKelvey and Jake Robbins Follow: https://instagram.com/loweryourshoulder Follow: https://instagram.com/doubtkillsmusic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min
  2. 04/17/2024

    In Tune and In Shape

    In this episode, hosts Ben McKelvey and Jake Robbins, explore the intertwining relationship between fitness and musicians, emphasizing the positive effects on physical health, mental well-being, and creativity. We highlighted the importance of consistency and routine, underscoring the long-term benefits of even small efforts in maintaining fitness. Additionally, we discussed the significance of aligning workout times with personal schedules, optimizing bedtime routines for better physical and mental recovery, and managing stress through physical activity and healthy habits. Practical tips such as hydration, consistent sleep schedules, and reducing screen time before bed were shared to enhance energy levels and overall health. Overall, the conversation emphasized the necessity for musicians to prioritize their physical and mental well-being for sustained success in the industry. Follow: @loweryourshoulder 0:00 Introduction 1:43 The Importance of Consistency and Routine 2:58 Overcoming Burnout and Finding Balance 3:19 Establishing a Morning Routine for Fitness 5:47 The Impact of a Regular Bedtime on Health 6:50 Setting Boundaries and Routines with Family 7:08 Incorporating Routine with Parenting Responsibilities 8:37 Discipline and Routine in Adulthood 10:14 The Importance of Sleep for Recovery 11:15 Tailoring Fitness and Routine for Creatives 12:42 Mental Health and Creativity in Musicians 13:05 The Connection Between Physical and Mental Health 14:55 Clarity and Focus through Physical Activity 15:38 Effects of Inactivity on Mental Wellbeing 15:56 Limiting Screen Time for Mental Health 16:19 Consistency in Fitness for Mental Clarity 17:38 Managing Stress for Creatives 18:01 Business Perspective on Health and Performance 20:49 Scheduling Creativity and Routine 25:56 Stress Management in the Music Industry 27:18 Financial Stress and Creativity 29:09 Avoiding Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms 32:49 Recognizing the Impact of Alcohol on Health 36:07 Prioritizing Health for Long-Term Success 38:03 Reevaluating Habits for Productivity 39:45 Improving Performance and Business through Health 40:38 Implementing Simple Health Tips 41:50 Importance of Consistent Health Practices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
  3. 04/03/2024

    Embracing Authenticity

    In this episode, hosts Ben McKelvey and Jake Robbins, emphasize the significance of authenticity in the artistic and creative journey. Sharing personal experiences from the music industry, we navigate the process of discovering one's unique voice amidst external influences. We delve into the challenges of maintaining individuality while being inspired by others, as well as the evolution of artistic identity over time. Central themes include the power of vulnerability in creating genuine art that resonates deeply with audiences and the importance of staying true to oneself despite industry pressures. Our conversation concludes with a call to fellow creatives to embrace their authenticity fully for lasting fulfillment in their artistic pursuits. Hosted by: Ben McKelvey and Jake Robbins Follow: @loweryourshoulder Follow: @doubtkillsmusic Listen to Ben McKelvey here Listen to Vincent George here Show Notes 0:00 Embracing Authenticity as an Artist 0:28 Finding Your Voice as a Young Artist 2:31 Discovering Your Unique Identity 3:57 The Journey to Self-Confidence 4:35 Embracing Vulnerability in Artistry 4:44 The Influence of Heroes on Creativity 5:56 Embracing Uniqueness in Songwriting 8:15 Overcoming Self-Consciousness in Art 9:33 Building Confidence in Creative Expression 13:01 Striving for Authenticity in Artistic Pursuits 17:58 Connecting with Audiences through Authenticity 22:47 Dealing with Criticism in Artistic Expression 25:13 The Power of Vulnerability in Creativity 28:17 Rediscovering Your True Artistic Self 36:04 Importance of Collaboration in Artistry 38:16 Fun and Authenticity in Creative Promotion 42:43 Embracing the Exaggerated Version of Yourself Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min

About

Welcome to The Lower Your Shoulder podcast, hosted by Ben McKelvey and Jake Robbins! Join us as we peel back the curtain on all our releases, share the untold stories behind our music projects, and reflect on our lifelong friendship and tales from tour. Need a boost? We’ve got you covered with motivational episodes fueled by our passion for fitness and creativity. Get ready to laugh, be inspired, and gain exclusive insights into the world of Lower Your Shoulder – your ultimate destination for music and fitness enthusiasts alike! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.