ArtsPerforming ArtsEducation

The Singer’s Guide

Tessa Smith

This is the show for ambitious singers who want more than just scales and song practice.

We’ll talk about the things your regular lessons don’t always cover — like ways to practice without waking the neighbours, the best tools for finding the perfect backing track, and how to turn warming up from a chore into something you actually look forward to.

Because being a singer is about more than just your voice — it’s about confidence, preparation, and all the little skills that make performing effortless.

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S2 · E10
Tuesday · 23 min
You Can Get Better: Sarah Bishop on Singing as a Skill, a Process, and an Emotional Journey
Host Tessa welcomes singer, teacher, performer, and The Singer’s Path Podcast host Sarah Bishop, trained by the IVA, and asks what she wishes singers knew. Sarah says singers can improve, but it takes time, focus, planning, and support, and she challenges the belief that people are either born able to sing or not, comparing vocal development to bodybuilding or Olympic training. Tessa and Sarah discuss how singing work is often hidden (like warmups), how “natural talent” can become an identity, and how professionals and teachers still make mistakes. They note the limits of short-form “one tip” content and Sarah’s move toward longer educational YouTube work. Sarah adds that singing also reflects a singer’s internal emotional world, describing a “vocal dysmorphia” dynamic and the challenge of improving while accepting the voice you already have. Sarah shares where to find her work and community. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:04 The Big Question 02:30 Singing Takes Time 04:55 Why We Hide the Work 06:27 Talent Myth and Identity 08:30 Pro Gig Reality Check 10:09 Showing the Process 12:19 One Tip Culture Trap 17:05 Emotions and Vocal Self Image 21:50 Where to Find Sarah FIND SARAH: Sarah Bishop is a professional singer, actor, songwriter, musician, and internationally recognised voice educator based in New York City. A graduate of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) with a BFA in Musical Theatre, Sarah has spent the past eight years working professionally across theatre, musical theatre, commercials, and new works. She has seen in various international productions including The Roundabout Theatre Company’s Tony Award-winning production of Cabaret and the new Broadway-bound work, including Griswold’s Broadway Vacation. Her career has taken her across the country and internationally, giving her a firsthand understanding of the technical and artistic demands placed on working professional singers. Alongside her performance career, Sarah has spent more than a decade developing singers and artists. She is a fully certified teacher through the Institute for Vocal Advancement (IVA) and has trained extensively in contemporary vocal technique and pedagogy. Since 2020, she has also served as an Associate Voice Teacher with EKM Studios before establishing her own business, Sarah Bishop Vocal Studio LLC. Sarah has coached and mentored Broadway performers, singers featured on NBC’s The Voice, recording artists, professional musicians, and emerging artists preparing for demanding creative projects. Her specialty lies in helping high-level singers develop the technical freedom, consistency, and stamina required for careers onstage and in the studio—without sacrificing the individuality of their sound. Sarah is also the founder of The Singer’s PATH™, an education platform designed to make sophisticated vocal training accessible to singers around the world. She created and produced its signature technical programs, including Pitchin’ Musician™, The Pillars Series™, and Advanced Mix™, as well as sold-out live trainings including Belt Like a Baddie and Discover Mini Course. Her programs and events have reached singers across the globe. Her Podcast, The Singer’s Path Podcast and her YouTube channel @singwithbish help to provide continued accessible and free education to singers all across the globe. Throughout all her products and content, her mission remains the same: to help serious artists build extraordinary, sustainable instruments while maintaining the individuality, freedom, and love of music that made them artists in the first place. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@singwithbish Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/singwithbish Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@singwithbish Podcast: Singer’s Path Podcast - YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@SingersPATHPodcast. Apple pods: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/singers-path-podcast/id1778599804 Facebook: Sarah Bishop Vocal Studio https://www.facebook.com/singwithbish/ Website: https://www.sarahbishopvocalstudio.com/ The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practi... ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S2 · E9
October 27 · 25 min
Overcoming Vocal Blocks: Katie Crooks on Subconscious Patterns That Run The Show
Host Tessa welcomes singing teacher, swing band leader, and hypnotherapist Katie Crooks, who says singers’ technique may be strong but subconscious beliefs and unprocessed emotions can still block the voice, showing up as issues like jaw tension or difficulty accessing mix. Katie explains she noticed students’ persistent fear of using their voice early in her teaching career and connects vocal function to emotional expression, including crying and suppression learned in childhood. She offers a practical starting point: don’t feed the story of why you’re stuck; instead witness sensations and thoughts as a short “biochemical flush” that typically lasts about 90 seconds unless reinforced by rumination. She discusses easing into believable affirmations, playing a positive “what if” game, and teaching by starting with what’s working rather than deficit-focused critique. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:05 The Big Question 02:15 Technique vs Subconscious Blocks 03:09 Katie’s Origin Story 07:33 Biochemical Flush Explained 10:15 Feel It Don’t Feed It 14:14 Affirmations That Stick 19:03 The What If Game 19:48 Teaching Without Deficit Focus 21:36 Hypnotherapist Questions for Lessons 22:59 Wrap Up and Where to Find Katie FIND KATIE: Katie Crooks - The Voice Witch - is an expert in helping artistic souls navigate their own subconscious minds to heal old patterns and limiting beliefs, so they can unlock their true creative voice, get boldly visible, and step into their full, majestic potential. A certified hypnotherapist with 20 years experience teaching pro level singing & spoken voice to thousands of artists and performers, Katie also has years of experience being on stage myself in venues across London and Europe. She has a BA and two Masters degrees in music, performance and voice training, plus certifications in Hypnotherapy, Past Life Regression and Life Between Lives. Listeners can find her at katiecrooks.com for resources and hypnosis freebies. The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practi... ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S2 · E8
October 13 · 25 min
Singing in the Present Moment: Renee Maranan on Grounding, Agency, and Sensory Awareness
Host Tessa welcomes singing teacher and certified life coach Renee Maranan to the Singer’s Guide podcast and asks what she wishes all singers knew. Renee says singers often treat the voice as a snapshot tied to the past or future, but the voice exists only in the present, and its current state is fleeting, deserving both appreciation and perspective. She emphasises that limitations today may change tomorrow and that singers have agency and responsibility to shape their voices through training, voice care, and lifestyle choices. Renee describes how she helps students ground themselves by listening and validating feelings after difficult performances, clarifying future goals into tangible plans and exercises, and building sensory awareness by asking how singing feels in the body. She shares where listeners can find her online. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:35 The Big Question 03:46 Your Voice Is Now 07:51 Agency and Appreciation 13:20 Host Reflection and Follow Up 15:11 Grounding Singers in Lessons 21:50 Sensory Awareness Practice 23:58 Where to Find Renee 25:18 Final Thanks and Goodbye FIND RENEE: Renee Maranan is a vocal instructor, voice teacher trainer, and certified life coach. She has over 25 years of experience as a vocal instructor and has been serving the Institute for Vocal Advancement as one of its most sought-after educators, having mentored and taught hundreds of IVA teachers through core classes, electives, and over 300 hours of private lessons over the past seven years. She is trained and certified as a life coach through the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching, and currently holds an Associate Certified Coach accreditation through the International Coaching Federation. Her coaching clients have included artists, animators, actors, social workers, entrepreneurs, a New York Times bestselling children's book author and illustrator, and of course, singers and voice teachers. Renee Maranan, ACC Vocal Instructor and Voice Teacher Educator Certified Professional Life Coach www.reneemaranan.com https://www.instagram.com/reneemaranan/ The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practi... ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S2 · E7
September 29 · 20 min
Trust the Process: Alexa Terry on Unfinished Sounds and Developing Your Voice
Host Tessa welcomes singing teacher and podcast host Alexa Terry to The Singer’s Guide and asks what she wishes singers knew. Alexa says singers should trust the process and allow themselves to make questionable, unfinished, less satisfying sounds while developing technique, especially in musical theatre and contemporary styles where singers chase belt or mix. She explains that exploring head voice and other component skills can support belt development, and that comparison to other singers can undermine progress; singers should trust themselves, their teacher, their physiology, and their own journey. They discuss how past messages about being loud or nasal can create mental barriers, and how teachers can build trust through safety, rapport, sensation-based feedback, tension ratings, and reflection tools like a vocal gratitude diary. Alexa shares where to find her online. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:46 The Big Question 02:41 Trust the Process 03:16 Belt vs Head Voice 05:35 Trust and Comparison 08:18 Physiology Shapes Sound 09:49 Helping Singers Buy In 12:04 Gratitude and Progress Tracking 14:27 Celebrate Wins Not Perfection 17:41 Self Talk and Wrap Up 18:42 Where to Find Alexa 19:38 Final Thanks FIND ALEXA: Alexa Terry is Deputy Head of Singing at Italia Conti - one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools, alongside running a private singing tuition practice in the South of England. She is also the host of BAST Training’s Singing Teachers Talk podcast and works as a unit tutor and mentor on their Level 5 vocational singing teaching qualification, as well as mentoring teachers on the BAST Foundation Course. A graduate with a BA in Musical Theatre, Alexa began her professional performing career as a lead soloist aboard cruise ships, travelling the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Baltic seas. She later trod the boards in London’s West End as the protagonist in a new musical theatre project, before developing her work as a writer and creative. She studied as a librettist with Book, Music & Lyrics (BML) and has written for publications including BritishTheatre.com as a theatre reviewer. Alexa has delivered sessions for Vocology in Practice and The Sing Space on topics including musical theatre repertoire, authentic musical theatre performance and imposter syndrome. At the BAST Intensive Weekend in summer 2026, she presented sessions on diagnosing and assessing voices, as well as selecting repertoire to develop vocal technique. Find Alexa on Instagram @alexaterryvocalcoaching The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practi... ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S2 · E6
September 15 · 15 min
Preparing Singers for Long Careers: John Henny on the Ageing Voice
Host Tessa welcomes singing teacher John Henny (The Intelligent Vocalist podcast, voiceschool.com) to discuss what he wishes singers knew: the voice will change with age, so singers must prepare long-term. John shares his experience in his late 50s developing a benign essential vocal tremor, leading him to therapy and research on how older voices need different approaches. He explains that ageing can involve vocal fold muscle atrophy (especially the TA), reduced closure, weakening in vocal tract structures, and the need to train differently for efficiency and high notes. They discuss micro-shifts, post-menopause changes, avoiding “chasing” a past voice, and adopting athlete-like habits, noting behaviours begin to matter around age 35. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:54 The Big Question 02:38 John's Voice Wake Up Call 03:55 Training the Ageing Voice 04:56 Your Voice Snapshot 06:19 Exercises That Change 09:15 Micro Shifts and Menopause 11:12 Reframing Ageing Positively 12:02 Long Game After 35 13:58 Where to Find John 15:16 Closing Thanks FIND JOHN: John Henny is a leading vocal coach in the music industry, with over 25 years of experience, renowned for his teaching skills. His techniques are designed to maintain vocal health, improve overall sound quality, eliminate voice cracks, and extend the singer’s range, allowing them to express themselves without limitation. In addition, John is an accomplished author, having written three Amazon bestsellers, and a popular podcast host of The Intelligent Vocalist, with over 500,000 downloads. He has also gained a significant following on YouTube, with 130,000 subscribers and 14 million views. As a seasoned online course creator, he offers an extensive library of training courses catering to singers, speakers, and voice teachers. You can learn more about John at www.johnhenny.com Find John on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VoiceSchoolcom The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practi... ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S2 · E5
September 1 · 16 min
Curiosity, Compassion, and Listening: Lucinda Allen on Reframing Vocal Challenges
Host Tessa welcomes vocal coach Lucinda Allen of Voice Unlocked and ICMP to discuss one thing she wishes singers knew: approach vocal challenges with detailed curiosity and careful listening, treating the voice as information rather than a problem to fix. Lucinda describes how singers often tie identity to vocal ability and self-gaslight by assuming issues are “all in my head,” and she advocates self-compassion, play, and removing moral judgment from technique. She explains that quick fixes may help in urgent situations but don’t build transferable skills, emphasising learning the “why” so singers can reproduce solutions independently. Lucinda highlights using multiple feedback modalities, including “listening with the hands” via MDH breathing coordination and educative touch, to form hypotheses and break unhelpful loops. She shares where to find her online and through ICMP. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:59 The Big Question 02:28 Curiosity Over Fixing 04:17 Identity and Confidence 06:10 Body Signals and Reframing 09:08 No Quick Fixes 12:17 Listening With Hands 15:17 Where to Find Lucinda 15:49 Final Thanks and Wrap Up FIND LUCINDA: Bodywork, MDH Breathing Co-ordination, & Creativity are the pillars of Lucinda's practice in delivering a bespoke & holistic approach for each client. Lucinda is a strong believer that every person can have a free, dynamic voice, and has devoted her life to delivering practical techniques to support her clients. Find her at https://www.voiceunlocked.com/ and on Facebook (@voiceunlocked), Instagram (@voiceunlocked) and TikTok (@voiceunlockeduk) The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S2 · E4
August 18 · 23 min
It’s Never Too Late to Sing: Chelsea Wilson on Returning to Your Artistry
Host Tessa welcomes U.S. singing teacher and podcaster Chelsea Wilson (Broadway Vocal Coach), whom she met through the Institute for Vocal Advancement, to answer one question: what she wishes singers knew. Chelsea focuses her answer on women in their 30s–50s who have put singing or performing aside due to marriage, children, careers, or caretaking and now fear their voice has changed or it’s too late to return. She shares a story from an IVA conference group sing of “You Will Be Found” where a student was moved to tears while reconnecting with singing in community. Chelsea relates this to her own decade-long break from performing while coaching and raising two daughters, and describes returning to the stage in Raleigh, including Come From Away and a new musical workshop, emphasising that performing, teaching, and motherhood can coexist and that artistry can start with small, local opportunities. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 00:57 Meet Chelsea Wilson 02:21 The Big Question 03:11 It’s Never Too Late 04:04 IVACON Group Sing Story 05:50 Why Women Step Away 07:37 Chelsea Returns to Stage 11:37 All or Nothing Mindset 16:18 Find Community and Sing 19:29 Better With Age 21:29 Now Is the Perfect Time 21:51 Where to Find Chelsea 22:36 Final Thanks and Goodbye FIND CHELSEA: Chelsea Wilson is a Broadway vocal coach and voice teacher known for helping singers — and the teachers who train them — build healthy, sustainable contemporary musical theatre voices. Since 2017, Chelsea has served on the music teams as the associate vocal coach for major productions including School of Rock (Broadway & National Tour), The Phantom of the Opera (Broadway and Int’l Tour), Jesus Christ Superstar (National Tour), and Rock of Ages (Off-Broadway). She is currently the associate vocal coach for Masquerade, the new immersive Phantom production Off-Broadway in New York City. A graduate of the University of Michigan Musical Theatre BFA program, Chelsea is also a certified instructor and teacher trainer with the Institute for Vocal Advancement, where she now mentors and trains other voice teachers around the world in contemporary vocal pedagogy. In 2021, she co-founded Broadway Vocal Coach, an online education platform and podcast serving professional and aspiring musical theatre performers worldwide. In 2026, Chelsea returned to performing in Theatre Raleigh’s production of Come From Away — a reminder that she still loves being onstage just as much as helping other performers thrive there. Chelsea now lives in Raleigh with her husband and two young daughters, where she balances coaching, performing, and family life — usually with a Diet Coke in hand and strict instructions from her kids “not to sing along!” https://www.tiktok.com/@singwithchelsea https://www.instagram.com/chwils/ chelseawilsonvocalstudio.com 🎧 BVC Podcast The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S2 · E3
August 4 · 19 min
Start at the Song: Jeremy Ryan Mossman on Context-First, Body-Based Voice Lessons
Host Tessa welcomes Jeremy Ryan Mossman to the Singer’s Guide podcast and asks what he wishes singers knew. Jeremy says singers can “start at the end” by beginning lessons with the song and its specific challenges, then using exercises only as needed to serve that context, repeatedly checking changes in the repertoire. He describes using acting-style given-circumstance games to clarify who the singer is addressing and why, noting that increased specificity often dissolves technical issues and reveals what truly needs technical attention. He critiques traditional lesson structures and training sequences that delay students singing what they love, arguing for honouring the artist’s goals and building from where they already feel successful. He encourages singers to count everyday singing as practice if they pay attention and get curious, and explains how simple body-based prompts can “hook” clients into experiential learning. Jeremy shares where to find him online: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok (Body Based Voice with J Moss) and bodybasedvoice.com. 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:33 The Big Question 02:22 Start With the Song 04:23 Storytelling Fixes Technique 07:13 Why Lessons Get Backwards 08:47 Honour the Artist First 11:36 Real World Singing Practice 13:37 Flexible Lesson Structures 16:12 Hooking Clients Fast 17:43 Where to Find Jeremy 18:58 Final Thanks and Wrap Reel mentioned at 17:46: HERE! FIND JEREMY: Jeremy Ryan Mossman is a teacher of voice, movement, and wholistic expression. Jeremy has recently moved on from academic teaching after 15+ years in order to focus on teaching in more creative and integrative ways while sharing his passion for wholly embodied singing. Jeremy has a unique way of reconciling long-held beliefs with new understandings about the body and singing which he teaches to performers on Broadway, on their way to Broadway, and to teachers around the world. You can learn more about him at www.bodybasedvoice.com Find Jeremy on Instagram: @bodybasedvoicewithjmoss Facebook: @bodybasedvoicewithjmoss and TikTok: @bodybasedvoicewithjmoss The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S2 · E2
July 21 · 20 min
Slow and Steady: Molly Marie Walsh on Small Wins, Discernment, and Too Much Choice
Host Tessa welcomes singing teacher and performer Molly Marie Walsh, a California-born UK-based musical theatre artist, close-harmony singer (The Honeybirds), Urdang faculty member, and BAST mentor. Asked what she wishes singers knew, Molly emphasises that “slow and steady wins the race”: vocal growth and mindset change come from little-and-often practice rather than quick fixes promoted by ever-present technology and online “magic” solutions. She describes reducing overwhelm by setting small, achievable tasks (e.g., in theatre history, the first assignment is simply to get and bring a book) and in voice lessons focusing on one demonstrable, repeatable concept, then integrating it into warm-ups and songs over time. They discuss the need for teacher confidence in repetition, the value of discernment on social media, and how too many choices can stop practice altogether. Molly has left social media and is reachable via https://mollymariewalsh.co.uk/ 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:04 The Big Question 02:30 Slow and Steady Growth 04:27 Teaching Small Wins 07:53 Repeating What Works 09:11 Social Media Quick Fixes 10:29 Good Content and Discernment 14:03 Too Much Choice to Practice 18:09 Finding Molly and Wrap Up FIND MOLLY: Born and raised in California, lived and worked in New York and Philadelphia, and now over 12 years a resident and raising a family in the UK, Molly has worn many hats. As a professional Musical Theatre Performer in the US: the National Tour of DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS, and productions of WHITE CHRISTMAS, 42nd STREET, FORBIDDEN BROADWAY, OKLAHOMA! and INTO THE WOODS, and in the UK: Alan Menken's A CHRISTMAS CAROL, JEWISH LEGENDS, and THE MIKADO. She has been a Vocalist with a classical crossover group, ANCORA, and close-harmony Andrews Sisters trios THE MANHATTAN DOLLS (US), and THE HONEYBIRDS (UK). She has also been a creative consultant with writing team KANSLEY & LIDERT on their original musicals, CONFESSIONS and AUTUMN RHYTHM. Molly currently teaches Voice, Musical Theatre and Drama across Buckinghamshire where she lives with her fellow musician-husband, and her two children, as well as teaching Voice, vocal technique, and the History of dance and musical theatre at Urdang Academy in London. She has also just completed her final module for the BAST Level 5 Extended Diploma in Singing Teaching Skills, for whom she is now a Mentor. https://mollymariewalsh.co.uk/ The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S2 · E1
July 7 · 15 min
Why Singers Should Play with Vowels: Heather Baker on Vocal Tract Shaping
In this Singer’s Guide podcast episode, Tessa interviews vocal coach Heather Baker (@thesingingteacher), founder member of the Institute of Vocal Advancement and a master’s-trained vocal pedagogy specialist, about the one thing she wishes singers knew. Heather emphasises experimenting with vocal tract shaping - playing with vowels and adjustable elements like the tongue, larynx, pharynx, jaw and lips - to find the unique configurations that help each individual voice resonate best. She explains that different shapes can make singing easier or harder and influence style choices. Tessa and Heather discuss using recordings and teacher feedback to counter inaccurate self-perception, building trust between internal sensations and external sound, and how willingness to be vulnerable and try new coordinations speeds vocal progress. 00:00 Welcome to Season Two 00:58 Meet Heather Baker 02:40 The Big Question 03:36 Vocal Tract Shaping Basics 05:58 Playful Experiments With Vowels 07:04 Style Choices Classical vs Belt 08:31 Recordings and Feedback Loops 10:35 Familiar vs Comfortable Sounds 11:35 Confidence Vulnerability and Growth 14:06 Where to Find Heather 14:55 Final Thanks and Goodbye FIND HEATHER: Heather is a world-renowned singing teacher and vocal coach with over 25 years of experience working with contemporary singers. Her clients range from Award Winning Recording Artists to West End and Broadway performers to Complete Beginners and everything in-between! She is a Founding Director of The Institute of Vocal Advancement and has amassed over 10,000 followers across her social media platforms. Heather holds a Masters Degree in Vocal Pedagogy and has completed years of ongoing training and study on the voice. She is an expert in her field and has a passion for helping singers develop their true potential and achieve the results they deserve. https://www.thesingingteacher.biz/ TikTok - Instagram - Facebook The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
June 30 · 2 min
The Singer’s Guide Season 2: Coming Soon
Tessa welcomes listeners to The Singer’s Guide and announces that season two is coming soon. She explains that season one focused on “what I wish I’d known sooner as a singer,” covering topics like warming up, cooling down, and how to practice. For season two, she has invited a range of respected singing teachers and peers and will ask each one question: “What’s one thing that you wish singers knew?” She mentions guests including Heather Baker, Jeremy Ryan Mossman, John Henny, Chelsea Wilson, and Lucinda Allen, and shares that episodes will be released fortnightly on Tuesdays starting 7 July 2026. The Singer's Guide is hosted by Tessa Smith. www.tessasmith.com ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S1 · E12
February 3 · 12 min
Reflecting on the good and the not-so-good (Season Finale)
In this final episode of season one of The Singer's Guide Podcast, host Tessa reflects on the journey so far. She highlights her favourite episodes, the overall approach to diverse topics such as vocal health and practice techniques, and discusses areas for improvement. Tessa also shares insightful responses from singers on what they wish they had learned earlier in their singing careers. Looking ahead to season two, she plans to incorporate feedback and introduce new perspectives by inviting other singing teachers to join the conversation. Tessa concludes by asking listeners for their favorite episodes and suggestions for future topics. 00:00 Introduction and Reflection 02:26 Season Highlights and Favourite Episodes 03:31 Areas for Improvement 07:02 Singer's Answers to the Question "What Do You Wish You'd Learned Sooner?" 10:39 Final Thoughts and Season 2 Preview ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S1 · E11
January 20 · 18 min
What are the essential skills every singer needs?
In episode 11 of The Singer's Guide Podcast, host Tessa discusses the broad array of skills necessary to build a successful singing career. Drawing from her experience as a jazz singer, vocal coach, choir leader, and academic researcher, she categorises these skills into three main personas: the artist, the learner, and the professional. Tessa delves into the specifics of vocal technique, musicianship, and performance skills under the artist persona. For the learner, she highlights the importance of voice science, vocal health, and reflective practices. The professional persona focuses on industry-specific hard skills and essential soft skills like organisation, communication, and project management. Throughout the episode, Tessa stresses that while the list of required skills can seem overwhelming, they can be developed and improved over time through practice and experience. She concludes by asking the listener 'What do you wish you had learned sooner?' 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 02:19 The Life of a Freelance Singer 02:42 Tessa's Career Journey 05:25 Essential Skills for Singers 06:11 The Artist Persona 08:21 The Learner Persona 09:42 The Professional Persona 13:16 The Importance of Practice 14:41 Final Thoughts and Listener Engagement ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S1 · E10
January 6 · 16 min
Kickstart 2026: Setting SMART goals for singers
In the 10th episode of the Singer's Guide podcast, host Tessa Smith delves into the topic of goal setting for singers to kick off the first episode of 2026. The episode focuses on the SMART goals framework - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound - offering practical tips for setting realistic and motivating goals. Tessa emphasises the importance of aligning smaller goals with larger objectives and making the goal-setting process enjoyable. She also introduces her Self Validated Voice Program and the Singer's Practice Hub as resources to help listeners achieve their 2026 singing goals. 00:00 Welcome to Episode 10: New Year, New Goals 03:39 Setting and Structuring Your Singing Goals 05:17 Understanding SMART Goals 10:41 Making Goal Setting Fun and Enjoyable 13:33 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S1 · E9
Dec 23, 2025 · 13 min
Singing when feeling unwell - how to navigate illness and fatigue
In the ninth episode of the Singer's Guide podcast, host Tessa offers best practices for maintaining vocal health on a daily basis, and what to do when feeling the onset of illness or fatigue. Tessa also talks about options when illness sets in and you still have to perform, such as quiet practice, song modifications, and collaborative performance strategies. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:10 Daily Vocal Care Tips 04:12 Handling Early Signs of Illness 06:34 Singing While Unwell 11:29 Final Thoughts and Listener Engagement ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S1 · E8
Dec 9, 2025 · 17 min
But I don't want to..! (How to increase motivation for singing practice)
In episode eight of The Singer's Guide Podcast, host Tessa discusses motivation, and how to motivate yourself to practice singing when it's lacking. Tessa explains the concepts of internal (intrinsic) and external (extrinsic) motivation and shares strategies to harness both types. She emphasises the importance of avoiding negative motivators and suggests setting deadlines, creating accountability, and using rewards as effective external motivators. Additionally, she discusses the benefits of novelty and curiosity in enhancing internal motivation. Tessa also highlights the value of documenting progress and incorporating varied practice activities, including enjoyable forms like singing in a choir or taking breaks. The episode underscores the significance of self-compassion and offers practical tools like the Singer's Practice Hub to help maintain motivation. 00:00 Introduction 01:10 Understanding Motivation 02:32 Types of Motivation: Internal vs External 04:41 External Motivators: Deadlines and Rewards 08:56 Boosting Internal Motivation 12:36 Alternative Practice Methods 15:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S1 · E7
Nov 25, 2025 · 18 min
Exploring the Singer's Practice Hub
In Episode 7 of The Singer's Guide, hosted by Tessa, the spotlight is on the Singer's Practice Hub; a comprehensive resource designed to improve singers' skills and support their vocal journey. Tessa explains the origin and development of the Hub, emphasising the practical relevance of the extensive research she conducted during her master's degree in vocal pedagogy. The episode breaks down the multiple sections of the Hub, including Fundamentals, Warming Up, Mindset Shifts, Singing Snacks, Voiceless Options, Resources, Song Work, Song Studies, and Beyond Singing. Additionally, Tessa introduces the community aspect facilitated through Telegram, allowing for motivation, support, and accountability among members. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to consider the multifaceted elements of singing practice, and Tessa reassures potential members that the Hub is well-organised to prevent overwhelming users. The Singer's Practice Hub is praised as a valuable tool for becoming a confident, independent singer. 00:00 Introduction to The Singer's Guide Podcast 01:46 The Birth of the Singer's Practice Hub 02:31 Research and Insights from Master's Degree Research 04:59 Creating a Practical Resource for Singers 06:25 Exploring the Singer's Practice Hub 06:56 Community and Support within the Hub 08:08 Fundamentals and Main Sections 09:36 Mindset Shifts and Singing Snacks 12:29 Voiceless Options and Additional Resources 14:22 Song Work and Beyond Singing 16:12 Conclusion and Invitation to Join ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S1 · E6
Nov 11, 2025 · 7 min
Should singers know music theory?
In episode six of The Singer's Guide podcast, Tessa explores the question of whether singers should learn music theory. She discusses the variability among singers' needs, highlighting that while music theory can be beneficial, it is not essential for everyone. Tessa explains the practical uses of music theory for reading sheet music, songwriting, and understanding vocal challenges. She shares personal experiences from her role in a close harmony trio and emphasises how music theory helps her with self-compassion and problem-solving. Additionally, Tessa introduces her Singer's Practice Hub, which includes music theory elements to support singers' practice. The episode concludes with Tessa inviting listeners to share what they wish they had learned earlier in their singing careers. 00:00 Welcome to The Singer's Guide Podcast 00:52 Should Singers Know Music Theory? 01:50 The Practical Benefits of Music Theory 02:55 Using Music Theory for Self-Compassion 05:50 The Singer's Practice Hub 06:35 Final Thoughts and Listener Questions ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S1 · E5
Oct 28, 2025 · 15 min
Practise your singing without disturbing the neighbours
In episode five of The Singer's Guide Podcast, Tessa discusses ways to practise singing without disturbing others. She introduces a Quiet Practice Toolkit, which includes three voiceless practice options complete with worksheets. The episode covers lyric memorisation and annotation, self-reviewing recordings, and lip-syncing with emotional prompts. These tools allow singers to continue developing their skills even in environments where they must remain quiet. Tessa also encourages listeners to share what they wish they had learned earlier in their singing journey for a future podcast episode. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:52 The Importance of Practice 02:38 Quiet Practice Toolkit Introduction 04:13 Tool 1: Lyrics-Based Practice 07:00 Tool 2: Listening and Self-Review 10:40 Tool 3: Lip-Syncing with Emotional Prompts 13:27 Conclusion and Listener Engagement ---- 🤫 THE QUIET PRACTICE TOOLKIT: 3 step-by-step exercises to improve your singing without making a sound https://subscribepage.io/quiet-practice-toolkit ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.
S1 · E4
Oct 14, 2025 · 13 min
Cooling down your voice
In episode four of the Singer's Guide podcast, Tessa discusses the often-overlooked practice of vocal cool downs. She shares her personal journey of discovering vocal cool downs and references a 2018 academic paper by Kari Ragan that highlights their benefits. Tessa elaborates on common cool down exercises such as SOVT exercises and vocal fry, and emphasises the subjective nature of evaluating their effectiveness. She also offers practical tips for remembering to cool down, like setting reminders and using fixed cool down tracks. Tessa encourages listeners to consider incorporating cool downs into their routine to reduce vocal fatigue and speed up recovery. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to share what singing techniques they wish they had learned earlier in their careers. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:46 The Concept of Vocal Cool Downs 02:33 Benefits and Techniques of Vocal Cool Downs 04:58 Personal Experience with Vocal Cool Downs 07:30 Encouraging Vocal Cool Down Habits 11:09 The Singer's Practice Hub 12:07 Conclusion and Listener Engagement ---- 🎤 Get the right backing track, in the right key, in less than 5 minutes with this free download: https://subscribepage.io/righttrackrightkey ---- 🤩 Tap here to learn more about the Singer's Practice Hub: www.singerspracticehub.com 🥳 Tap here to work with Tessa: www.thesingersguide.com 🎵 Music by Tessa Smith 🎙 Hosted by Tessa Smith, creator of The Self-Validated Voice and The Singer's Practice Hub.

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