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Be a Better Artist

Markus Junnikkala

Demystifying the Creative Process.

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 2 hr 48 min
  • English

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  • #108
    August 11 · 3 hr 59 min

    How Do You Make a Keyboard Believe It's a Guitar? — Greg Schlaepfer, Orange Tree Samples

    Greg Schlaepfer is the founder of Orange Tree Samples, where he's spent seventeen years solving a strange problem: how do you take an instrument with six strings and two hands doing completely different things, and make it playable from a keyboard? We talk about the magic trick that gave the company its name, why he pays royalties to every musician and engineer who works on a library, and what it actually costs to spend eleven years finishing a single project — three scrapped interfaces, several rounds of burnout, and 376 instruments later. Along the way: chasing realism versus loving lo-fi sounds for what they are, why impressing people is the weakest way to move them, and what it means to be an artist on the days you feel like anything but. 🔗 ORANGE TREE SAMPLES LINKS Website: https://www.orangetreesamples.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/orangetreesamples X: https://x.com/OTsamples Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orangetreesamples/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orangetreesamples Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Night owls, kids and the creative sleep problem (00:07:32) Filming your children, AI cameras and privacy (00:18:24) Cargo bikes, thieves and California drivers (00:30:36) Welcome: who is Greg Schlaepfer? (00:33:42) Making a guitar playable from a keyboard (00:42:54) Why "Orange Tree"? A magic trick from the 1800s (00:55:45) Developers Greg admires, and conducting your DAW (01:06:32) Brainwave MIDI, MiMU gloves and the VR that never arrived (01:14:28) Are the tools good enough? Osmose, Seaboard and MPE (01:23:28) Born in Austin: Greg's parents, teaching and music (01:29:28) Recording from a keyboard, Breachway and game music (01:34:51) Starcraft, Commander Keen and growing up with computers (01:40:52) Siblings, kids young vs late, and piano as a family rule (01:50:21) Almost quitting piano — and the keyboards that hooked him (02:01:57) SoundFonts, dial-up and the free Ultimate Guitar Kit (02:09:20) Chasing realism vs loving lo-fi sounds for what they are (02:16:53) Hired at 17, a jazz piano degree, and no obvious path forward (02:24:26) Kontakt 2 and founding Orange Tree Samples in 2008 (02:27:24) Scrappy forum marketing and self-promotion (02:39:20) Royalties, ethics and why Greg won't be a CEO (02:46:30) AI instruments, who gets paid, and the early Orange Tree years (02:55:24) Breakthrough releases and 11 years of Latitude percussion (03:06:23) Drums, room mics and great recording engineers (03:13:02) What's next: modernising the engine, bespoke samplers and R&D (03:22:54) Film and game scoring: ego, restraint and every note (03:31:47) Greg's own music, and the instruments he still wants to sample (03:38:47) What is an artist? Night work, curiosity and closing questions (03:57:07) Wrap-up and where to find Orange Tree Samples

  • #107
    February 17 · 3 hr 21 min

    Music That Builds Worlds – George Strezov on Instinct, Atmosphere, and Imagination

    In this episode, I talk with George Strezov about how imagination, world-building, and instinct shape the way he writes music. We dig into growing up in Bulgaria, discovering film and game music through RPGs and early PC games, and why “vibe” often matters more than rules or theory. George shares how he thinks about atmosphere, writing to picture, and creating music that places the listener inside a world rather than explaining it. This is a conversation about how music works on a felt level — how it creates space, meaning, and immersion — and what happens when you trust instinct over formulas. 🔗 GEORGE STREZOV LINKS Website: https://www.strezov.net/en Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/george-strezov/958294122 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2DNnA9F0OrEmC80UWEwrMi?si=jQrJ7S9HQcCPyP47jkEyNw Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Strezov Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strezov/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/George.Strezov 🎻 STREZOV SAMPLING LINKS Website: https://www.strezov-sampling.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StrezovSampling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strezov_sampling/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StrezovSampling/ X: https://x.com/StrezovSampling Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Introduction & meeting George Strezov (00:03:30) Bulgaria, culture, and creative roots (00:10:30) Family, upbringing, and early artistic influences (00:18:30) Discovering film music & formative listening (00:27:30) Art vs commerce and creative identity (00:38:00) Childhood, curiosity, and non-linear learning (00:50:00) Role-playing games, imagination, and world-building (01:02:00) First steps into music production and game music (01:15:00) Education, self-teaching, and musical foundations (01:30:00) Entering the professional world of composing (01:55:00) Large-scale projects, orchestras, and collaboration (02:20:00) Burnout, balance, and sustaining a long career (02:40:00) Philosophy of music, success, and the future (02:58:00) Final reflections and closing thoughts

  • #106
    January 13 · 2 hr 46 min

    Following Sound, Not a Plan — Ian Boddy on Creativity and Longevity

    I talk with composer and sound designer Ian Boddy about curiosity, sound, and building a creative life without a roadmap. We cover how Ian moved from studying biochemistry to discovering analogue synthesis by accident, teaching himself through experimentation, and falling in love with sound as art rather than rules or theory. We also talk about working jobs you don’t love, protecting your creative energy, finding your own tribe, and why solitude and patience matter more than visibility. Ian shares practical insight into sound design, library music, and how writing hundreds of small pieces over time quietly became the foundation of his career. This is a grounded conversation about sticking with what fascinates you—and letting the long game do its work. IAN BODDY LINKS: Website: http://ianboddy.com/ DiN Records Bandcamp: https://dinrecords.bandcamp.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/theianboddy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theianboddy/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theianboddy BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/ianboddy.bsky.social Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Introduction and life in Northeast England (00:06:30) Childhood, family background, and early creativity (00:13:30) Lego, imagination, and thinking in systems (00:20:30) Discovering sound, synthesizers, and Spectro Arts (00:29:30) First concerts, albums, and creative obsession (00:38:30) Working life vs artistic life (00:46:00) Akai, technology, and entering the music industry (00:58:00) Sound design, sampling, and early libraries (01:12:00) Library music and sustainable creative careers (01:28:00) Technology shifts and changing tools (01:43:00) Creativity, aging, and long-term perspective (01:58:00) Advice for artists and industry realities (02:13:00) Meaning, fulfillment, and artistic philosophy (02:32:00) Reflections, lessons learned, and closing thoughts

  • #105
    January 6 · 4 hr 55 min

    Making Noise Until It Works — Gitae Kim (aka Gimgi) on Creativity, Discipline, and Game Music

    In this episode, I sit down with Gitae Kim (aka Gimgi), the composer behind Ogu and the Secret Forest, for a long, honest conversation about creativity and the cost that sometimes comes with it. We talk about discipline, hyperfocus, burnout, physical health, and what it’s really like trying to sustain a creative life. Gimgi shares how mandatory military service, learning instruments under pressure, and losing himself in flow states shaped the way he approaches music and game scoring today. We also get into the thinking behind the Ogu soundtrack — world-building, leitmotifs, and making music that serves the game rather than draws attention to itself. A grounded conversation about sensitivity, survival, and why we keep creating. GITAE KIM / GIMGI LINKS: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@gimgi2974 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gimgi_tae/ X: https://x.com/Captain_Gimgi Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Opening meditation and restless creative minds (00:04:30) Finally meeting after Tokyo Game Show (00:07:40) Korea vs Finland seasons culture and daily life (00:12:10) Mandatory military service in Korea (00:21:30) Learning trumpet in the army band under pressure (00:31:00) Discipline control and emotional survival (00:43:20) Hyperfocus paranoia and losing track of time (00:55:50) Overworking on Ogu and the limits of flow (01:07:40) Physical consequences spine pain and burnout (01:21:10) Standing desks ergonomics and creative health (01:39:30) Responsibility family and structure as an artist (01:56:40) Stress nervous system overload and sensitivity (02:15:00) Health crisis and long-term recovery (02:32:10) Reset after interruption continuing the conversation (02:35:40) Early musical life and discovering instruments (02:54:30) Bands guitar and finding a creative identity (03:12:20) Music technology DAWs and self teaching (03:28:40) Falling in love with game music (03:45:50) How Ogu and the Secret Forest happened (04:02:30) Composing Ogu themes structure and hidden ideas (04:21:40) Real instruments vocals and production choices (04:39:20) Working with developers and creative trust (04:50:40) What’s next reflection and closing thoughts

  • #104
    Dec 30, 2025 · 3 hr 6 min

    Why Music Is Too Hard If You Don’t Love It – Geoff Knorr

    Composer Geoff Knorr — known for his work on the Civilization series and other large-scale game soundtracks — joins us for a deep conversation about creativity, discipline, and what it really takes to build a life in music. We discuss learning to accept criticism, letting go of ideas that don’t work, why good music can still be the wrong music, and why some composers grow while others stay stuck. Drawing from Geoff’s experience composing for major games, teaching at the Peabody Institute, and collaborating with musicians across diverse musical traditions, the conversation explores humility, perspective, and long-term creative growth. The episode also touches on health, sustainability, and discipline — from staying physically active as a composer to recognizing that music is simply too hard to pursue unless you genuinely love it. GEOFF KNORR LINKS: Website: https://www.geoffknorr.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KnorrMusic Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1OFCjpSAsyIOWWzIAYb3OI?si=_eoobKhuQTSmDIWa4DYmjg Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/geoff-knorr/411130469 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geoff.knorr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Geoff-Knorr-Composer/174736382555080 Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:08) Introduction (00:02:16) Growing Up, Family, and Early Influences (00:08:32) Sports, Discipline, Health & Longevity as a Composer (00:13:19) Failure, Hard Work & Lessons From Sports (00:16:37) Subjectivity, Criticism & Facing Reality in Music (00:23:14) Letting Go of Music That Doesn’t Work (00:27:19) Teaching, Mediocrity & Why Some Musicians Don’t Improve (00:34:15) Game Music Reality: Serving the Vision (Beyond Earth) (00:38:19) Technology, Early MIDI & Audio Foundations (00:45:33) Collaboration, Culture & Working With Musicians (00:51:35) Childhood, Encouragement & Learning to Love Music (00:56:05) Classical Foundations, Bach & Musical Identity (01:01:04) Why Music Is Too Hard If You Don’t Love It (01:05:11) Video Games, Direction & Choosing a Career Path (01:16:10) Studying Composition, Recording & Wearing Both Hats (01:30:10) Composing Process: Score, DAW & Sample Libraries (01:46:00) Improvisation, Structure & Non-Western Traditions (02:02:10) Trust, Sensitivity & Recording Real Musicians (02:18:40) Sound vs Notes: Where Music Actually Lives (02:36:00) Experience, Speed & Long-Term Creative Thinking (02:57:30) What Keeps You Going (Final Reflections)

  • #103
    Dec 2, 2025 · 3 hr 29 min

    Inside Heavyocity: Dave Fraser on Art, Life, and Making Iconic Instruments

    I sit down with Dave Fraser, co-founder of Heavyocity, one of the most influential companies in the modern virtual instrument and cinematic sound design world. Dave opens up about his earliest musical memories, the wild gigging years, studying at Berklee, his unexpected detour into the medical field, the grind of composing for TV and advertising, and the origins of Heavyocity. This episode is packed with wisdom for composers, producers, sound designers, and anyone navigating a creative life. HEAVYOCITY LINKS: Website: https://heavyocity.com/ Heavy Melody Music: https://www.heavymelodymusic.com/ Youtube: @Heavyocitymedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heavyocity/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heavyocity-media-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Heavyocity X: https://x.com/HeavyocityMedia Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) – Intro, tech setup & the new Heavyocity instrument (“Aftermath”) (00:12:31) – Reflections on 9/11, kindness & personal philosophy (00:54:13) – Early musical beginnings & rediscovering the piano (01:00:28) – First bands, gigging, and life as a young performer (01:06:41) – College decisions, pre-med detour & finding Berklee (01:21:06) – Touring life: reality checks, burnout & self-discipline (01:33:52) – Leaving the road & entering professional composition (02:09:20) – The Heavyocity origin story & creative philosophy (02:28:03) – How Heavyocity instruments are made: ideas → prototypes → releases (03:25:49) – Art, creativity, and Dave’s message to the world

  • #102
    Oct 21, 2025 · 2 hr 22 min

    Philosophy of UI Design in Music Technology – Nataliia Hera from Voger Design

    In this episode, we speak with Nataliia Hera, co-founder of Voger Design, the studio behind some of the most recognizable virtual instrument interfaces in the world. Nataliia shares her journey from post-Soviet Ukraine to building a global creative business, the role of luck and collaboration, and why design isn’t just cosmetic — it’s essential to how we make music. VOGER DESIGN LINKS: Website: https://vogerdesign.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@voger_design Voger Design Blog: https://vogerdesign.com/blog/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vogerdesign/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/voger/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vogerdesign Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Intro — Creative life and war in Ukraine (00:03:00) What Voger Design does & why UI for audio matters (00:07:00) From poetry to design — discovering beauty in bleakness (00:11:00) Building Voger from scratch with $80 and a dream (00:16:00) Early community work, Reaper themes & first clients (00:21:00) How collaboration fuels creativity (00:26:00) The philosophy of teamwork — “Skyscrapers aren’t built by solo people” (00:31:00) Mentorship, proximity, and luck in creative careers (00:37:00) Leadership lessons — hiring, structure & humility (00:43:00) Balancing motherhood, time, and entrepreneurship (00:50:00) Psychology of design — why looks do matter in plugins (01:00:00) Developers, ego, and the empathy gap (01:10:00) Lessons from building for humans, not markets (01:18:00) The illusion of objectivity in design decisions (01:22:00) Oversaturation in the plugin industry & design sameness (01:28:00) Nataliia’s YouTube journey — teaching design philosophy (01:35:00) Speaking uncomfortable truths about the industry (01:42:00) Ideology bubbles & resistance to feedback (01:48:00) Learning to collaborate with difficult personalities (02:01:00) Facing the future — AI, identity & human meaning in design (02:10:00) The deeper philosophy of empathy and beauty (02:20:00) Closing reflections — art, family & creative balance

  • #101
    Oct 7, 2025 · 4 hr 26 min

    Jordan Chin – Monster Train 2 Composer Interview

    Composer Jordan Chin (Monster Train 1 & 2) joins me to explore what it means to create with vulnerability, curiosity, and purpose. We talk about the courage to be a beginner, the balance between exploration and deadlines, and why great game music must serve both the artist and the larger world it belongs to. A conversation for anyone walking the creative path. JORDAN LINKS: Website: https://www.jordanchinmusic.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5FqaQ5TCnpKQCFJNyzrQJX?si=DbzIaktYSgO3boMn3cd5og Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jordan-chin/1046850267 Bandcamp: https://jordanchinmusic.bandcamp.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClF_ljAEbAs1wL6B3Rci5vA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordanchinmusic X: https://x.com/jordanchinmusic Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JordanChinMusic Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Intro & greetings (00:01:02) Warhammer 40k – Factions, lore & painting as meditation (00:11:01) The art of being a beginner & practicing discomfort (00:16:47) Lessons from the gym – health, judgment & resilience (00:25:01) Vulnerability in music & creating beyond validation (00:30:06) Serving the larger whole in game music (00:34:23) Music + medium magic – Ghibli, Final Fantasy & Monster Train (00:38:42) Monster Train 2 soundtrack, guitars & band influence (00:41:17) Drummers, rhythm, and the foundation of energy in composition (00:49:28) The value of space, restraint & arrangement in music (00:58:38) Curiosity vs. practicality in the creative process (01:07:40) Origins – growing up in San Jose & family influences (01:20:00) First bands, instruments & discovering composition (01:36:00) Breaking into game music & career lessons (01:54:00) Creative workflow, iteration & collaboration (02:15:00) Monster Train 1 & 2 – writing process & challenges (02:40:00) Finding your own sound & balancing influences (03:05:00) Tools, production & mixing philosophy (03:30:00) Reflections on vulnerability, judgment & creative growth (04:17:19) What your dog can teach you

  • #100
    Sep 30, 2025 · 26 min

    What I Learned After Recording 100 Podcast Episodes

    After 100 episodes of Be a Better Artist, this milestone isn’t about views, likes, or follower counts—it’s about meaning, persistence, and the impact you create. In this episode, I share the biggest lessons from the journey so far: why chasing numbers is a trap, how to keep going when you want to quit, the power of persistence, learning to be proud of your work (even when it’s not perfect), and why real connection with people matters more than metrics. If you’re a creative struggling with motivation, battling self-doubt, or feeling stuck in the numbers game, this episode is for you. Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro & Episode 100 reflections (01:32) Why chasing numbers leads to failure (03:25) Expectations vs. reality of the podcast (05:01) Persistence, setbacks & staying consistent (08:09) Finding meaning and building resilience (13:49) Quality, perfection & being proud of your work (18:49) Real connection, trust & audience impact (25:01) Wrap-up & how to support

  • #99
    Sep 23, 2025 · 3 hr 6 min

    Cameron Paxton – Dome Keeper Composer Interview

    We sit down with composer Cameron Paxton, best known for his work on the hit indie game Dome Keeper. From growing up in a music-filled home to serving in the Air Force and eventually carving a path into game audio, Cameron’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and rediscovery. We explore what it means to balance youthful creative urgency with the more deliberate craft of maturity, how to chase sparks of inspiration before they fade, and why discipline is just as important as inspiration. Cameron shares lessons from his journey through rock bands, tape recorders, game jams, and ultimately finding his voice in game music. This episode is about more than music — it’s about the art of becoming. Whether you’re a musician, creative, or simply curious about the philosophy behind making art, you’ll walk away with insights to fuel your own journey. CAMERON LINKS: Website: cameronpaxton.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1OBr3Jn1ePWfUJ4f0Vp0VE?si=mwcfwL4JRy-nKI_Zq8scWg Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/cameron-paxton/608985830 Bandcamp: https://cameronpaxton.bandcamp.com/ Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) – Intro & Tech Setup (00:09:12) – Life in Austin & Texas Stories (00:17:41) – Growing Up Military & Air Force Years (00:28:33) – Lessons from the Military & Diversity of People (00:53:14) – Discovering Music as a Teenager (00:55:03) – C-Lane Project & Early Recordings (01:09:10) – Inspiration vs Discipline in Creativity (01:24:45) – Game Jams & The Road to Dome Keeper (01:36:23) – Dome Keeper’s Development & Soundtrack Expansion (01:46:45) – Release Reflections & Creative Validation (02:32:46) – Sound Design, Tools & Process Insights (02:51:41) – Work-Life Balance, Therapy & Sustaining Creativity (03:10:00) – What It Means to Be an Artist (03:18:17) – Closing Thoughts & Outro

  • #98
    Jun 3, 2025 · 34 min

    Feeling Stuck? Why Moving Abroad Might Save Your Life

    Are you feeling stuck in life — drifting, lost, and disconnected from who you truly are? In this episode, I share my personal story of how changing my physical environment — and eventually moving abroad — became the catalyst for profound internal change. We explore how emotional attachment to people and places can silently shape your identity, limit your potential, and keep you locked in outdated versions of yourself. I dive into the difference between reinvention and reconnection, why some environments make growth nearly impossible, and what it means to truly start from a clean slate. If you've ever felt trapped by your city, your relationships, or your past — this conversation is for you. Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. 1-on-1 Coaching: https://markusjunnikkala.com/consultation/ Become a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://youtube.com/@markusjunnikkala https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://twitter.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Rating, subscribing, and sharing helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) - Feeling Stuck in Life (01:45) - Growing Up Trapped (03:31) - The Cage Is in Your Mind (05:11) - Place Holds Power (07:05) - You’re Not Who They Think You Are (08:40) - The Smirks That Stop You (10:45) - Nowhere Left to Grow (13:04) - Getting Into Music School Abroad (16:42) - Friends on Purpose (19:00) - No Past, Just You (20:14) - Why Moving Cities Isn’t Enough (21:01) - Make an Exit Plan (22:42) - Regret Hurts More (23:49) - Pick Your Place With Purpose (25:36) - New Place, Same You? (29:38) - Final Invitation (31:50) - When Locations Hold Feeling (32:45) - Call to Action

  • #97
    May 27, 2025 · 50 min

    What Causes Creative Burnout?

    In this episode, we explore some of the mental causes behind creative burnout. We dive deep into the psychology of stress, the danger of unspoken expectations, and how your internal “mental software” might be running faulty code that leads to frustration, exhaustion, and creative stagnation. If you’re a creative person constantly feeling depleted, stuck, or under pressure to “do more,” this episode is for you. Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. 1-on-1 Coaching: https://markusjunnikkala.com/consultation/ Become a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://youtube.com/@markusjunnikkala https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://twitter.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Rating, subscribing, and sharing helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Intro: Facing Burnout (00:01:54) The Body Can't Differentiate Stress (00:04:49) How Expectations Fuel Burnout (00:06:46) Unspoken Expectations Destroy Relationships (00:13:01) Meet People Where They Are (00:17:53) The Hidden Burnout of Pleasing Everyone (00:23:37) Reprogram Your Mental Software (00:30:49) Break Patterns to Break Through (00:33:06) Why Creatives Need Small Wins (00:41:03) Burnout and the Battle With Time (00:47:14) You Can Only Do Your Best

  • #96
    May 20, 2025 · 34 min

    Social Media is Destroying Your Creativity

    In this episode we explore the effects of deleting your social media apps from your phone. Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it below in the comments or on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://twitter.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) – The Decision to Delete the Apps (00:01:44) – The Power of Getting Fed Up (00:02:44) – Scrolling in the Bathroom (00:03:34) – Breaks That Don’t Recharge (00:04:56) – Information Overload Isn’t Learning (00:06:30) – Willpower is Limited, Use It Wisely (00:07:48) – You’re Fighting Tech Giants (00:08:23) – A Moment in Nature and Self-Reflection (00:09:25) – Saving Willpower for What Matters (00:11:42) – Protein Bars and Mindful Choices (00:13:28) – Addicted, Quit, Repeat (00:14:44) – Can Social Media Be Fixed? (00:16:14) – Strategic Consumption (00:17:48) – Failed Experiments in Self-Limiting (00:30:04) – Someday, You’ll Wish for That Time (00:32:13) – The Poison is in the Dose (00:33:02) – Delete the Apps, Keep the Account (00:33:50) – Final Thoughts and How to Connect

  • #95
    May 13, 2025 · 2 hr 57 min

    Magnus Pålsson / Souleye – VVVVVV Soundtrack Composer Interview

    Magnus Pålsson is a composer best known for their soundtrack for the video game VVVVVV under the artist name Souleye. He opens up about ego death, creativity, and building a gamified platform for personal growth. A raw, inspiring conversation about transformation, vulnerability, and what it means to live truthfully in a digital age. MAGNUS LINKS: Website: https://www.magnuspalsson.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2wguicPfR7ne0MDX7mYPRq?si=z153KlHtQPGc0SzT4I1KSw Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/magnus-p%C3%A5lsson/806918599 Bandcamp: https://souleyedigitalmusic.bandcamp.com/album/pppppp-the-vvvvvv-soundtrack X: https://x.com/MagnusRender Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) - Technical Issues and Settling In (00:02:00) - Moving to Portugal for Economic Reasons (00:04:00) - From Music to Investments and Personal Growth (00:08:00) - Gamifying Personal Development (00:12:00) - Transparency, Public Growth, and Personal Accountability (00:16:00) - Magnus’s Ego Death Experience (00:24:00) - Living Without an Ego and Resetting Perceptions (00:28:00) - Integrating the Shadow and Emotional Maturity (00:34:00) - Impact on Creativity and Expressing a Wider Emotional Range (00:40:00) - Music, Hopefulness, and Emotional Complexity (00:46:00) - The Return of the Inner Voice (00:53:00) - Managing the Ego's Influence in Daily Life (00:57:00) - Relational Meditation and Circling Practice Explained (01:03:00) - Building a Gamified Growth Platform (01:09:00) - Truth, Trolling, and Documenting Transformation (01:17:00) - Philosophy, AI, and the Search for Truth (01:19:00) - Facing AI and Redefining Human Connection (01:23:00) - Human Imperfections and the Future of Authenticity (01:27:00) - AI Adapting to Mimic Humanity (01:31:00) - The Futility and Beauty of Seeking Truth (01:35:00) - Finding Joy in Simplicity and Process (01:39:00) - Early Music Career and Unexpected Opportunities (01:44:00) - The Strange Story Behind Magnus’s First Game Soundtrack (01:49:00) - Creative Integrity Versus External Expectations (01:55:00) - Sustaining Creativity Amidst Day Jobs and Long Commutes (02:00:00) - Using Old-School Trackers to Compose Legendary Music (02:04:00) - Evolving Creativity and Embracing New Horizons (02:10:00) - Gaming, Childhood Inspirations, and Musical Beginnings (02:15:00) - The Role of Play and Joy in Developing Skills (02:20:00) - Building a New Life Focused on Passion Projects (02:30:00) - Creating a Gamified Platform for Growth and Connection (02:38:00) - Life Philosophy: Living Authentically and Courageously (02:45:00) - Final Reflections and Closing Thoughts

  • #94
    May 6, 2025 · 2 hr 56 min

    Mudeth – Binding of Isaac Antibirth OST Composer Interview

    Mudeth is a composer from Bangalore, best known for his soundtrack for The Binding of Isaac Antibirth OST. MUDETH LINKS: Website: https://www.mudeth.org/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mudeth 'The Unsung' (Mudeth's podcast): https://unsung.mudeth.org/The_Good_and_the_Flawed Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6ERwcThkHmFXYHH3TagPOY?si=AjEodAaXRZOAEUhbS4fZLA Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mudeth/1189772212 Bandcamp: https://mudeth.bandcamp.com/ X: https://x.com/htedum LINKS FOR THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST: The Bioacoustics podcast: https://india.mongabay.com/2024/07/podcast-wild-frequencies-find-wildlfe-with-bioacoustics/ Knytt (video game): https://archive.org/details/Knytt Iji (video game): https://www.remar.se/daniel/iji.php Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Support this podcast by becoming a member: https://markusjunnikkala.com/membership/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://x.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Intro & The Binding of Isaac Mod Origins (00:05:00) Burnout from Ad Work & Discovering Creative Joy (00:12:00) Artistic Integrity vs Client Expectations (00:20:00) Artist vs Craftsperson: Personal Philosophy (00:25:00) Fan Favorites and Musical References (00:30:00) Cultural Influences Growing Up in India (00:35:00) Host’s Background and Creative Journey (00:43:00) Making Indie Games: Breachway Development (00:49:00) Perfectionism, Releasing Music, and Artistic Growth (00:56:00) Creative Process and Avoiding Overthinking (01:04:00) Knowing When to Let Go of a Song (01:10:00) Early Childhood, Curiosity, and Synth Exploration (01:20:00) Computer Music, Trackers, and DAW Evolution (01:30:00) Creative Confidence and Trusting Instincts (01:40:00) Learning Through Releasing Music (01:50:00) Mixing Tricks & Gaining Perspective (02:00:00) Fixing Weak Sections and Structural Flow (02:10:00) Letting Go & Binary Nature of Art (02:20:00) Music, Emotion, and Avoiding False Satisfaction (02:30:00) Playfulness, Simplicity, and Authenticity (02:45:00) Final Reflections on Growth and Creativity

  • #93
    Jul 17, 2024 · 3 hr 16 min

    Damjan Mravunac

    Damjan Mravunac is a Croatian composer and musician, best known for his music for the Serious Sam video game series, as well as the Talos Principle 1 and 2 video games. DAMJAN LINKS: Website: http://www.damjanmravunac.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4JCHmi2aI31AP3VsVKE2ks?si=dCSHw9drRGa0doPgjPReJA Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/damjan-mravunac/726774063 Bandcamp: https://damjanmravunac.bandcamp.com/ TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Parenting (00:05:02) Music Tech & Production (00:14:05) Personal Music Journey (00:24:50) First Gig, Croteam, Serious Sam (00:31:24) Dreaming Big, Creative Restriction (00:38:25) Procrastination, Workflow, Routine (00:45:07) Sound Design (01:01:09) Studio Setup, Remote Work (01:14:00) Networking, Game Music Industry, Advice for New Composers (01:28:15) Talos Principle 1 and 2 (01:45:07) Inspiration, Composition, and Mixing (02:00:45) Approach to Game Soundtracks (02:07:31) Mixing and Composing Simultaneously (02:16:15) Evolution of Technology in Music (02:27:29) Impact of War on Creativity (02:30:03) Digital Technology's Impact on Creativity (02:34:06) Work-Life Balance and Parenting (02:41:07) Passion for Music and Creative Process (02:48:20) Fitness Journey and Health (02:56:24) Future Projects and Aspirations (03:00:42) Definition of an Artist (03:10:13) Message sent to Everyone's Smartphone Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://twitter.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

  • #92
    Jul 9, 2024 · 3 hr 21 min

    Paul Kilduff-Taylor

    Paul Kilduff-Taylor is a composer and artist known for his music as nervous_testpilot as well as _ensnare_. He is also the co-founder of Mode 7, an indie game publisher and development company, known for titles like Frozen Synapse, Fight in Tight Spaces, and Tokyo 42. PAUL KILDUFF-TAYLOR LINKS: https://www.nervoustestpilot.com/ https://www.mode7.games/ X: https://x.com/mode7games Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mode7games/ nervous_testpilot Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7zhakwCorTNUwe17WxD3kh?si=Iuf-uikKTKqr9BTCqhe_5A _ensnare_ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1XYSXyGl3WXrHN7EPBQ1fc?si=bPiDLZzqQHq5Ood8dbfUAg nervous_testpilot Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/nervous-testpilot/192738401 _ensnare_ Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/ensnare/888028958 TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Intro (02:19:00) Emotional and Spiritual Connection in Music (05:02:00) Podcast Goals (07:52:00) Branding Challenges as an Artist (12:30:00) Game Development background (15:04:00) Personal Background (15:12:00) Early Life and Family (16:46:00) Technology Exposure in Childhood (18:00:00) Relationship with Technology (21:30:00) Childhood, Family (24:21:00) Risk Management, Anxiety, Collaboration (30:20:00) Early Music Exposure (32:23:00) Music as a Career Consideration (39:04:00) Humour in Music and Life (47:27:00) Early Career in Game Development and Music (56:02:00) Frozen Synapse (2011) (01:02:03) Mixing music, Sound selection, Retaining Emotion (01:06:53) Dynamic Music in Video Games (01:11:15) Creativity vs. Technical Precision (01:20:30) Approach to SNES Style Music (01:34:01) Music Technology in Composition (01:37:01) Inspiration (01:42:01) Compositional process (01:45:01) Musical Influences (01:53:22) Non-musical Influences (01:57:50) Time Management and Work Structure (02:00:30) Balancing Work and Personal Life (02:05:54) Challenges with Sleep and Coping Mechanisms (02:15:00) Emotion and Decision Making (02:23:33) Music Tech Talk (02:30:02) Mixing Techniques (02:45:02) Upcoming Exciting Music Tech (02:49:42) Balancing Work and Life (02:56:05) Future Plans and Projects (02:59:12) Definition of an Artist (03:18:33) Message Sent to Everyone's Phone Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://twitter.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

  • #91
    May 7, 2024 · 3 hr 16 min

    Peppsen

    Peppsen (Petter Sumelius) is a Finnish composer now residing in Sweden. He is known for his music mod for the video game Rimworld, as well as Shapez; a factory-building and automation game. He is also the composer for the upcoming and awaited Shapez 2. PEPPSEN LINKS: Website: https://www.peppsen.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Peppsen Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0VmuJa5WFTghyy3P2ng9HO?si=CbcW9Q5VQZS0jogbNYssiw Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/fi/artist/peppsen/1439733884 Bandcamp: https://peppsen.bandcamp.com/ TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Intro (06:43:00) Background, growing up, family, hobbies (22:12:00) Video game influence (30:01:00) Music theory, Playing instruments (45:01:00) Early DAW experiences, Adolescence, Music mods (49:06:00) Pursuing music as a profession (01:02:05) Work process, Mindset, Networking (01:10:30) Creative freedom, Constraints, Feedback (01:42:02) Silence in music, dynamic/adaptive music in games (01:48:15) Full-time job and composition, finances (01:57:40) Profession VS Hobby (02:00:02) Expectations, Pressure, Criticism (02:17:03) Iterative Process of Creation (02:20:16) Sources of Inspiration (02:25:04) Avicii (02:30:05) Cost of living, Music gear, Software Updates (02:36:13) Inspiration (continued) (02:38:56) Life and work balance, Collaboration, Time management (02:47:47) Software and Virtual Instruments (02:50:19) Using Loops in Composition (03:03:24) Definition of an Artist (03:07:08) Message to Everyone's Smartphone (03:12:10) Wrapping up Markus Junnikkala is a Composer from Finland. https://www.markusjunnikkala.com/ Want me to answer your question? Ask it below in the comments or on social media: https://www.instagram.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.facebook.com/markusjunnikkala/ https://twitter.com/markusjunnikkal https://www.twitch.tv/markusjunnikkala https://www.reddit.com/user/markusjunnikkala/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusjunnikkala/ Subscribing, sharing, and liking helps the podcast.

  • #90
    Mar 27, 2024 · 3 hr 20 min

    Chris Christodoulou

    Chris Christodoulou is a composer based in Athens, Greece, writing music for video games (Risk of Rain series, The Sea Will Claim Everything), movies and other media (audio drama Gospels of the Flood), as well as stand-alone compositions. CHRIS CHRISTODOULOU LINKS: Website: https://www.chrischristodoulou.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/63OPPk7uHFdcpTuOFYpNfV?si=ZChNAaDnQGenP5pdEDnWOw Bandcamp: https://chrischristodoulou.bandcamp.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AstronautDown Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astronautdown X: https://twitter.com/AstronautDown TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Workspace, Workflow, Need for change, Gear Organization (14:01:00) Value of the long-form conversation format (25:04:00) Turning professional, Creative freedom, Work project selection (39:58:00) Early life, Upbringing, Parental influence on music, Cultural influences (56:25:00) Realizing and pursuing a career in music, Band Environment (01:06:30) Evolution of music culture, Formalized music education, Impact of social media on musicianship, Value of being an Instrumentalist (01:15:04) Understanding musical instruments as a composer, Importance of musical education (01:22:42) Creativity, Inspiration, and the Creative process (01:30:00) Originality in music composition, Studying music theory in Athens (01:38:22) Studying music for film in Amsterdam, Love for film editing (01:46:42) Reinventing yourself, Personal growth, Social pressure and expectations (01:54:35) Becoming a video game composer, Proactivity, Dealing with rejection (02:01:27) Taking risks, Trusting your creative intuition (02:05:06) Inspiration beyond music (02:14:32) Writing process, Creative block, Dealing with negative thoughts (02:21:03) Work-Life balance, Becoming a father (02:27:50) Lovecraftian themes and gaming (02:30:48) Risk of Rain soundtrack process (02:33:09) Daily routine and Creative process (02:39:11) Knowing when to step away, Taking breaks (02:44:30) Excitement about new audio gear, Thoughts on overreliance on modern tools (02:56:38) Lessons learned from cats (03:00:01) Lessons learned by becoming a parent (03:05:59) Definition of an Artist (03:10:13) Message sent to everyone's smartphone (03:12:02) Finland and Greece

  • #89
    Feb 27, 2024 · 3 hr 3 min

    Adam Fligsten

    Adam Fligsten is a composer for games and other media, based in Los Angeles, California. Video game credits include Outreach (Pixel Spill) and Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite, and his music has been licensed to countless TV shows and commercials. He is the founder of Silen Audio, a full service video game audio house, and also now maker of virtual instruments. ADAM FLIGSTEN LINKS: Website: https://adamfligsten.com/ Silen Audio: https://www.silen.audio/ https://x.com/adamfligsten?s=20 TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:01:09) - Creativity and sleep patterns (00:05:14) - Credits (00:07:03) - Silent Audio (00:10:12) - Background and upbringing (00:15:03) - Live music, studio music, working in a band (00:16:28) - Transitioning towards electronic music (00:18:59) - Music as a coping mechanism (00:21:14) - Music as a teacher and inspiration (00:24:05) - Pursuing music professionally (00:29:58) - Staying creative while working another job (00:35:03) - Negotiation skills (00:38:00) - Longevity in a career as a film composer (00:43:08) - Finding passion in media composition (00:49:42) - Experience working for a composer (00:52:52) - Adaptability and growth (00:59:03) - Managing stress in high-pressure situations. (01:01:28) - Leadership - Cultivating a positive atmosphere (01:11:23) - Experience at UCLA's music composition program (01:15:00) - Education and Transition to Entrepreneurship (01:19:25) - Business Lessons Learned (01:30:06) - Building Trust and Collaboration in the Creative Industry (01:32:45) - Selling Yourself as a Composer (01:36:00) - Understanding Clients' Needs and Expectations (01:45:04) - Pouring Heart and Soul into Work (01:46:17) - Commitment to Artistry (01:51:30) - Effective Branding as a Composer (01:56:20) - Transitioning to Full-time Entrepreneurship (02:00:00) - Existential fear and dread (02:11:19) - Time and the creative process (02:15:01) - Trusting instincts (02:19:01) - Challenges of maintaining inspiration (02:22:08) - Ego, humility, and the creative process (02:30:03) - Work and self-worth. (02:35:22) - Infinite Flow Synth (02:42:49) - Importance of interface design (02:45:03) - Silen Audio future plans (02:52:28) - Retaining creativity (02:55:52) - Definition of an artist (02:58:48) - Message sent to everyone’s smartphone

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