Secret Sonics

Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner
  • 5.0 (43)
  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY
Secret Sonics

Join mix engineers Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner as they team up to discuss the real-world trials and triumphs of music production. Tactical advice on skill development, mixing mindsets, personal branding, and achieving work-life rhythm in an evolving industry. The motivation and strategic insights you need to build your dream creative career in music and audio. Fresh episodes every week.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    #231 - Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

    In this episode, Ben and Carl reveal why blindly pushing boundaries isn't the answer - and share their framework for intentionally shifting your comfort zone instead. Plus: real talk about raising rates without feeling like a jerk, why some producers thrive in chaos, and the art of making business changes without losing your soul. Some topics we cover: •⁠  ⁠The sneaky way comfort zones can kill your growth (without you noticing) •⁠  ⁠How to raise your rates without losing clients (including the exact script) •⁠  ⁠Why some "uncomfortable" moves are just bad ideas (and how to tell the difference) •⁠  Turning intimidating changes into your new normal. Learn more about StudioLand - https://www.welcometostudioland.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5 Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    28 min

  2. DEC 10

    #230 - Seasons of Growth

    Ever feel like you're juggling too many transitions at once? In this episode of Secret Sonics, Carl and Ben get real about the challenges (and unexpected opportunities) of major life and business changes. From moving studios to streamlining services, they dive into what happens when your personal and professional worlds collide. Whether you're thinking about delegating tasks, moving your studio, or just feeling stuck in a transition period, this candid conversation explores how successful studio pros navigate seasons of growth without losing their minds (or their creative spark). Plus, get a sneak peek at StudioLand - Carl's new educational platform helping thoughtful music production professionals become irresistible to their ideal clients. Sometimes the scariest changes lead to the biggest breakthroughs. Time to embrace the chaos? In this episode: • Why delegation isn't just about saving time - it's about focusing on what only YOU can do • The truth about training others (and why "I'm too busy" is a trap) • How physical moves can spark creative and business reinvention • Why streamlining services doesn't always mean doing less • Real talk about work-life separation when you work from home • The unexpected benefits of forced change Learn more about StudioLand - https://www.welcometostudioland.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5 Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    33 min

  3. DEC 3

    #229 - Mix Like a Producer: Crafting Sonic Depth and Dimension

    In this episode, Ben and Carl pull back the curtain on their approach for taking good mixes to the next level by implementing additional production. You'll get a peek into their fast-paced workflow, trying out new ideas without overthinking and how they get experimental with sound design. Blending multiple sources to craft dream guitar, piano, and other instrument tonesHunting for complementary sounds vs. just replacing problem elementsStrategically adding subtle percussive "ear candy" to lift energyThe "2-minute rule" for quickly trying out new production ideas Learn more about Carl's StudioLand - https://www.welcometostudioland.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5 Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Ben's Sample Packs (mentioned in the episode): Shofar - https://app.filepass.com/s/pvJPG4jsmD06VOoo/f/405031/Shofar%20Samples%20(Wallick).zip Discord Pack - https://app.filepass.com/s/rESekl0tfZvFE7KG/f/487763/Sample%20Pack%20%231 Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    37 min

  4. NOV 26

    #228 - Philip Weinrobe Part 2 - Trust and Authenticity in Music Production

    In this episode, Ben and Carl continue their conversation with Phil Weinrobe and dive deep into the intricacies of trust-building and authentic music production in the studio. They explore the importance of clear and direct communication, the challenges of balancing perfection with creative spontaneity, and unique practices like limiting playback to foster trust and focus on performance. The discussion also touches on the psychological aspects of music creation, managing interpersonal dynamics within a band, and the significance of vulnerability and stakes in producing impactful music.  Building Trust in the StudioThe Importance of Feeling in MusicThe Role of Danger and Stakes in ArtLearn more about Phil - https://www.philipweinrobe.com/ Follow Phil - https://www.instagram.com/philipweinrobe/ Learn more about Carl's StudioLand - https://www.welcometostudioland.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5 Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    28 min

  5. NOV 19

    #227 - Philip Weinrobe Part 1 - Death by Perfection: Bringing Humanity Back to Records

    In this episode, Ben and Carl reconnect with Phil Weinrobe to challenge common recording assumptions and share his refreshingly human-centered approach to music production. Why live tracking creates musical magic that overdubs can't replicateHow breathing sounds act like a conductor's baton for emotional impactThe vocalist, not the rhythm section, often drives the rhythmic feelTrust your gut reactions while casually listening over critical analysisConvert technical "problems" into musical opportunitiesBuild processes that reliably reach higher creative peaks fasterBuilding trust through process and preparationMaintaining flexibility while aiming for ideal scenariosLearn more about Phil - https://www.philipweinrobe.com/ Follow Phil - https://www.instagram.com/philipweinrobe/ Learn more about Carl's StudioLand - https://www.welcometostudioland.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5 Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    46 min

  6. NOV 12

    #226 - Why the Client Isn't Always Right (But Their Vision Is)

    In this episode, Ben and Carl dive into the delicate art of handling mix revisions and collaborating with artists. After a brief hiatus, they return with fresh insights on: Why mix revisions aren't personal attacks on your skills or tasteThe balance between respecting the artist's vision while providing professional guidanceHow to handle situations when artists' requests conflict with their stated goalsThe importance of clear communication and expectation-setting from the startWhy checking in early and often prevents major revision headaches laterTips for working with artists who communicate in different languages or styles Learn more about Carl's StudioLand - https://www.welcometostudioland.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5 Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    32 min

  7. SEP 23

    #225 - Burnout and Overwhelm in the Audio Industry

    In this candid episode, Ben and Carl open up about their personal struggles with burnout and overwhelm. This episode offers a raw, honest look at the realities of burnout in the audio industry, reminding listeners they're not alone in these struggles. Topics we discuss: The challenges of balancing work, family, and other life stressorsManaging communication overload across multiple platformsStrategies for dealing with burnout Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    41 min

  8. SEP 16

    #224 - Matt Huber Part 2 - The Mixer's Mastermind: Collaborative Learning and Leveling Up

    In this enlightening follow-up, Matt Huber dives deeper into the collaborative nature of audio engineering, sharing insights on collective learning, building community, and evolving mixing techniques. Discover how fostering relationships with fellow engineers can accelerate your growth, why a competitive mindset holds you back, and Matt's latest revelations about multiband processing on the mix bus. Topics we discuss: How Matt and his collaborators deep-dive into topics like loudness for streaming platformsThe unexpected benefits of viewing other engineers as peers rather than competitorsMatt's innovative "5% better" exercise for group mixing sessionsWhy understanding the 'why' behind plugin choices is crucial for intentional mixingMatt's evolving perspective on multiband processing and how to use it more effectively Learn more about Matt - https://matthuber.co/ Connect with Matt - https://www.instagram.com/mattjhuber/ Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing Connect with us: Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/ Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/ Thanks to our sponsors! Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen “The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout Learn more: https://www.benwallick.com/ https://www.carlbahner.com/ This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

    33 min
See All (259)

5
out of 5
43 Ratings

About

Join mix engineers Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner as they team up to discuss the real-world trials and triumphs of music production. Tactical advice on skill development, mixing mindsets, personal branding, and achieving work-life rhythm in an evolving industry. The motivation and strategic insights you need to build your dream creative career in music and audio. Fresh episodes every week.

Information

  • Creator
    Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2024
  • Episodes
    259
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Ben Wallick
  • Show Website
    Secret Sonics

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