Working Class Audio

Peel back the glamour of the professional recording world. Guests from the world of audio for music, film, games, restoration, and more share their insights on how they made their journey, how they survive, their advice on the real things including wins, losses, working with other people, money, and career advice.
Hosted by audio engineer Matt Boudreau.
The Working Class Audio Podcast - Navigating the World of Recording with a working class perspective.

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605 episodes
Updated July 28
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Episodes605

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March 10 · 1 hr 3 min
WCA #586 with Richard Chycki Part 2– Management, Networking, Cultural Transition, Future Plans, and The Rush Connection
This is part 2 of a discussion Matt had with multi-platinum mixer and engineer Richard Chycki whose clients include such rock royalty as Rush, Aerosmith, Dream Theater, Skillet, Mick Jagger, Alice Cooper, Pink and many more. In This Episode, We Discuss: Management Networking: Building Relationships for Success Cultural Transition: From Canada to the U.S. Music Scene The Rush Connection: Networking and Opportunities Navigating the World of Immersive Audio Technologies Future Plans and Networking in Nashville Links and Show Notes: Part 1 Interview Rich's Site Matt's Rant: Auto Pilot Credits: Guest: Richard Chycki Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
March 3 · 55 min
WCA #585 with Jade Alysse Berry – Passion for Music, Overcoming a Health Crisis, Navigating Industry Politics and Client Communication
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mixing engineer, producer and composerJade Alysse Berry, whose path to mixing was sparked by a life‑changing health event and a deep love for music. Jade shares practical insights on creativity, collaboration, and setting clear boundaries with clients. In This Episode, We Discuss: How a health crisis redirected Jade’s career toward audio engineering Challenges and politics of the music industry Collaborative dynamics with partner Bob Horn The creative process of mixing Setting boundaries Understanding client expectations Effective communication Links and Show Notes: Jade on Instagram Matt's Rant: The Home Studio Credits: Guest: Jade Alysse Berry Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
February 24 · 1 hr 4 min
WCA #584 with Tom Camuso – Preserving Les Paul's Legacy, Education, Los Angeles vs. New York, Cracking the Preservation Code, and Weather
Matt is joined by grammy winning engineer Tom Camuso who has worked with Lenny Kravitz, Blondie, Steve Earl as well as a number of commercial, television and film projects. Tom is also the Chief Engineer at The Les Paul Recording Studio in Holly wood. In This Episode, We Discuss: Preserving Les Paul's Legacy Los Angeles vs. New York Cracking the Preservation Code Weather Education Library of Congress Links and Show Notes: Tom's Site Les Paul Studio Matt's Rant: Economic Reevaluation Credits: Guest: Tom Camuso Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
February 17 · 1 hr 14 min
WCA #583 with Richard Chycki Part 1– Networking, Finances, ATMOS, Learning from Major Artists, and Adapting to Technological Changes in Audio
Matt is joined by multi-platinum mixer and engineer Richard Chycki whose clients include such rock royalty as Rush, Aerosmith, Dream Theater, Skillet, Mick Jagger, Alice Cooper, Pink and many more. In This Episode, We Discuss: NAMM Experience Current State of Immersive Audio Moving to Nashville: Reasons and Plans Early Musical Journey and Transition to Engineering The Shift from Musician to Engineer Adapting to Technological Changes in Audio The Future of Atmos and Immersive Audio Artist Reactions to Immersive Mixing The Evolution of Atmos Technology Learning from Major Artists Navigating the Music Industry Financial Strategies in Music Production The Importance of Networking Mixing Classic Records in Atmos Links and Show Notes: Rich's Site Matt's Rant: The Expenses Credits: Guest: Richard Chycki Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
February 9 · 1 hr 5 min
WCA #582 with Joel Weldon Willis – Church to indie music, Freelancing, Grammy Nominations, Remote Mixing, and The Importance of Collaboration Over Competition
Matt welcomes Grammy Nominated producer /engineer/mixer Joel Weldon Willis. In This Episode, We Discuss: Building a Home Studio Early Experiences in Music Production Transitioning to Freelance and Indie Music Scene Creative Approaches to Music Production Navigating Financial Challenges in the Studio Recording Techniques and Live Sessions Lessons Learned in the Studio Freelancing and Renting Studio Spaces Community and Collaboration in Music Production Balancing Promotion and Authenticity The Impact of Grammy Nominations Adapting to Client Needs and Communication Remote Mixing Handling Criticism and Professional Growth The Importance of Collaboration Over Competition Links and Show Notes: Joel's Site Matt's Rant: Inspiration Credits: Guest: Joel Weldon WIllis Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
February 3 · 58 min
WCA #581 with Sanford Parker – Chicago Music Scene, Independent Artists, Managing Overhead, and Getting out of Florida.
Matt welcomes Producer /engineer/mixer and film composer Sanford Parker. As an artist he’s performed and released albums with extreme heavy and industrial bands like Black Cross Hotel, Corrections House, Mirrors for Psychic Warfare and Minsk. Throughout the years he’s collaborated with members of Sonic Youth, Ministry, Napalm Death and Neurosis as well as producing and mixing albums for Darkthrone, Voivod, Brutal Truth, Pelican, YOB, Hide, Youth Code, Wovenhand, Rwake, Local H and many others. Takeaways Sanford opened his studio in March 2020, just before the pandemic. He prefers working with independent artists and punk music. Chicago's music scene is affordable compared to other major cities. Managing overhead is crucial for running a successful studio. Sanford transitioned to mixing in the box for efficiency. He values genuine relationships with artists over bureaucracy. The pandemic shifted his work focus back to mixing. The flexibility of working remotely with clients. Learning to navigate financial discussions with bands. Independent music often allows for quicker decision-making. Links and Show Notes: Sanford's Site Matt's Rant: Your Journey Credits: Guest: Sanford Parker Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
January 27 · 1 hr
WCA #580 with Steve Chadie – LIVE FROM NAMM 2026
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back GRAMMY-winning recording engineer and producer Steve Chadie live from the AudioScape booth at NAMM 2026 to talk about recording bands. Steve has worked with WIllie Nelson, Los Lonely Boys, Wilco, and the Supersuckers. In This Episode, We Discuss: Mic placement and monitoring. The bleed Band dynamics Food and energy levels Expectations Creative ruts. Being invisible Headphone mixes Less substance abuse Links and Show Notes: Steve on WCA #245 Steve on WCA #487 Steve's Site Matt's Rant: The People Credits: Guest: Steve Chadie Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
January 20 · 1 hr 22 min
WCA #579 with Fran Cathcart – Studio Ownership, Herbie Hancock, Stress, and Moving to the Bay Area
Matt welcomes producer/engineer/composer Fran Cathcart. Fran having just moved to the Bay Area from New York recounts his journey in studio ownership, working with Herbie Hancock, and facing down serious challenges that would make most throw in the towel, yet he still keeps going. In This Episode, We Discuss: Studio Ownership Herbie Hancock Early Digital Recording Divorce Covid Getting Sued Stress Moving to the Bay Area Links and Show Notes: Fran's Site Matt's Rant: Client Communication Credits: Guest: Fran Cathcart Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
January 13 · 1 hr 37 min
WCA #578 with Joe Caithness – Pro Audio Minimalism, Finding Balance, Decluttering, Embracing Whimsy, and The Bell Curve
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Mastering Engineering Joe Caithness. Joe has worked on mastering the soundtrack music for games such as Borderlands, and Tekken, the soundtracks for the Netflix movie Close, bands such as Don Martin 3 and Palooka 5. In this episode we discuss Pro Audio Minimalism. In This Episode, We Discuss: Pro audio minimalism focuses on efficiency and workflow. Post-pandemic, many have adapted to home studios. Stripping down gear can lead to better productivity. Quality of work is not determined by the amount of gear. The bell curve illustrates the journey of audio engineers. Social media can exacerbate gear obsession. It's important to focus on skills rather than equipment. Minimalism can reduce stress in the creative process. Finding balance in audio engineering is crucial. Personal interests outside of audio can influence spending. Being debt-free allows for better control over finances. Intentional communication can streamline workflows and reduce confusion. Minimalism in workflow can lead to increased efficiency. Decluttering can help identify unnecessary subscriptions and expenses. Applying minimalism to business practices can enhance focus and productivity. The thrill of the hunt can lead to unnecessary clutter if not managed. Intentional equipment purchases can prevent buyer's remorse. Every purchase has a domino effect on workflow and finances. Embracing whimsy can make minimalism enjoyable and fulfilling. Sharing resources can benefit others and reduce personal clutter. Links and Show Notes: Joe's Site Joe on WCA #329 Matt's Rant: Credits: Guest: Joe Caithness Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
January 5 · 1 hr 15 min
WCA #577 with Justin Gray – Immersive, Balancing Family Support, Belief In Your Work, Early Surround, & Being Engineer and Artist
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Producer, Mixer & Mastering Engineer Justin Gray. Based in Toronto, Canada, Justin has worked on projects for Snoop Dogg, Brandy, Nicky Youre, Mother Mother, Arkells, Jamie Fine, Lola Brooke, Upsahl, and The Sheepdogs. In this conversation, Justin Gray discusses his album 'Immersed', exploring the creative process, technical aspects of immersive audio, and the importance of community and collaboration in music production. He shares insights on funding, marketing strategies, and the role of social media in promoting his work. The discussion also touches on the challenges of balancing family life with artistic pursuits and the significance of believing in oneself as an artist. In This Episode, We Discuss: Innovative immersive audio Early surround experiments Community-driven collaboration Canadian arts funding Value of physical media Social media promotion Impact of recognition Balancing family support Belief in the work Engineer and artist Links and Show Notes: Justin's Site Links to all streaming Platforms Band Camp Immersive Audio Album Justin on WCA #451 Matt's Rant: Forming Your Own Bubble Credits: Guest: Justin Gray Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Dec 30, 2025 · 1 hr 17 min
WCA #576 with Alan Evans – Health, Creativity, Reflections, Client Interactions, and 2026
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer, engineer, mixer, multi-instrumentalist, singer and, songwriter, Alan Evans. Alan is of course well known as a member of his band Soulive. He's also been a past guest on WCA #133 and 328. Matt Boudreau and Alan Evans reflect on the past year and share insights on creativity, health, and the music industry. They discuss the importance of recharging creatively, embracing technology, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to ensure longevity in their careers. The duo also emphasizes the significance of simplicity in music production, the role of album artwork, and the power of community and connection in fostering creativity. As they look ahead to 2026, they express excitement for new projects and the journey of self-discovery in their artistic endeavors. In This Episode, We Discuss: Reflections on the past year Creativity and staying inspired Recharging creatively Health, wellness, and career longevity Simplicity in music production The role and value of album artwork Community and connection as creative fuel Looking ahead to 2026 New projects on the horizon Self-discovery through artistic work Links and Show Notes: Al's Site Orb Audio Microcosm Audio Al on WCA #133 Al on WCA #328 Matt's Rant: What's Inspiring Me Credits: Guest: Alan Evans Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Dec 21, 2025 · 1 hr 39 min
WCA #575 with Michael Beinhorn – Remote Production, Artist Development, Risk Taking, High-End Listening, and Unique Voices
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer Michael Beinhorn who has worked with The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Soundgarden, Herbie Hancock, Korn, Marilyn Manson, Weezer, Ozzy Osbourne, Hole, Cuco, Aerosmith & Violent Femmes. Michael originally appeared on WCA #029 back in 2015. In This Episode, We Discuss: Music production Remote production Pre-production Music critique Mainstream music AI in music Unique voices Music industry Creativity in music Music technology Artist development Risk-taking in music Music analysis Recording industry Listening setup Collaboration Links and Show Notes: Michael's Site Michael on WCA #029 Matt's Rant: Auto Pilot Credits: Guest: Michael Beinhorn Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Dec 16, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
WCA #574 with Stephen DeAcutis –Owning Your Time, Getting It Right At The Source, Solving Audio Problems, and Performing Live
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mixer, producer, engineer, writer, and performer Stephen DeAcutis. Stephen has worked with Vanilla Fudge, Gladys Knight, Travers and Appice, Corey Glover, and Cyndi Lauper. In This Episode, We Discuss: Owning Your Time Embracing Old and New Celebrating the New Generation Solving Audio Problems Working From Home Communicating with Musicians Getting It Right At The Source Performing Live Links and Show Notes: Stephen's Site Stephen on Instagram Matt's Rant: Staying Positive Credits: Guest: Stephen DeAcutis Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Dec 9, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min
WCA #573 with Natalie Bibby – AIR Studios, Direct to Disc, Attended Sessions, MPG, and Connecting with Others
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mastering and lathe cutting engineer Natalie Bibby who works at AIR Studios in the U.K.. Natalie has worked with Kraftwerk, Bring Me The Horizon, Lola Young, Jimmy Eat World, The Vaccines, Lewis Capaldi, GIRLI, and CATTYShe's also led a world-class mastering workshop at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios, UK. In This Episode, We Discuss: Early musical influences Starting in recording & mixing University training & goals Metropolis internship lessons Moving into mastering Live cuts & direct-to-disc Half-speed mastering overview Learning & mentorship insights AIR Studios Value of attended sessions Managing client expectations Hybrid mastering workflows How mastering engineers listen Common mixing problems Music Producers Guild Challenges for studios AIR’s cutting reputation Vinyl cutting process Mastering vs. cutting American mastering mystique Links and Show Notes: AIR Studios Music Producers Guild Matt's Rant: How we present ourselves Credits: Guest: Natalie Bibby Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Dec 2, 2025 · 1 hr 14 min
WCA #572 with Alex Crescioni - Extreme Metal, Techniques, Clients, Survival, and Letting Go.
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back guitarist, producer, and mixing/mastering engineer Alex Crescioni to talk about Extreme Metal production. Alex is known for his work with Burton C. Bell, Deverauxx, and Siglos. In This Episode, We Discuss: Extreme Metal Techniques Sounds Room Tone Business Survival Letting Go Links and Show Notes: Alex’s Site Alex on Linkedin Alex on Instagram Alex on WCA #333 Matt's Rant: Spread the Work Credits: Guest: Alex Crescioni Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Nov 24, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
WCA #571 with Don Setaro –DEEP DIVE - Gary Young Hospital For The Chemically Insane
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer/engineer/mixer and record label owner Don Setaro. Matt and Don get into a deep dive discussion of the re-issue process for former Pavement drummer, Gary Young's album "Hospital For The Chemically Insane". Former WCA guests Dan Johnson and Justin Perkins chime in to talk about their role in the process. Enjoy. In This Episode, We Discuss: Pavement Gary Young Detective Work Restoration Tape Rescue Mastering from CD Re- Issue Keeping the Vibe Links and Show Notes: Gary on Bandcamp IAC Records Matt's Rant: Structure Credits: Guest: Don Setaro /Dan Johnson/Justin Perkins Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Nov 18, 2025 · 1 hr 24 min
WCA #570 with Ken Sluiter – A deep dive into stereo rebuilds for Atmos mixing.
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer/engineer and mixer Ken Sluiter to delve into the intricate process of stereo rebuilds for Atmos mixing. They discuss the challenges of finding and organizing original material, the importance of matching to comparison masters, and the unique aspects of each project. Ken shares insights on the ingestion process, the role of research in understanding original recordings, and the potential of AI tools in audio restoration. The discussion also touches on the future of mixing and the evolving landscape of music production. Enjoy. In This Episode, We Discuss: Stereo rebuilds for Atmos mixing. The process involves gathering original assets and recreating mixes. Each project is unique, requiring a tailored approach. Matching to a comparison master is crucial for accuracy. Researching the original recording can provide valuable insights. AI tools can assist in stem separation but have limitations. Finalizing mixes involves careful listening and adjustments. The future of audio mixing may involve more AI and technology. Understanding the original recording process is key to successful rebuilds. Links and Show Notes: Ken on WCA #166 Matt's Rant: Music Expo/AES/NAMM Credits: Guest: Ken Sluiter Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Nov 11, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
WCA #569 with Dan Johnson & Catherine Vericolli – Audio Restoration/Archive Deep Dive
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Dan Johnson of Audio Archiving Services and Catherine Vericolli of Central Audio Archiving to do a deep dive into the world of audio archiving, preservation, and restoration. In This Episode, We Discuss: Analog Tapes Analog Machines Modular Digital Multitracks DAT Machines DASH Machines Pro Digi Retrospect Mezzo Links and Show Notes: Links to Dan https://www.audioarchivingservices.com/ https://www.workingclassaudio.com/wca-405-with-dan-johnson/ Links to Catherine https://www.centralaudioarchiving.com/ https://www.workingclassaudio.com/wca-035-with-catherine-vericolli/ https://www.workingclassaudio.com/wca-403-with-catherine-vericolli/ Matt's Rant: This AI Thing Credits: Guest: Dan Johnson & Catherine Vericolli Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Nov 4, 2025 · 1 hr 47 min
WCA #568 with John Cuniberti – OneMIc, Dynamics, Acoustics, Placement, and 2 Tracks
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back John Cuniberti who produces, engineers, mixes and masters records for many artists including most notably Joe Satriani, Sammy Hagar, The Dead Kennedys, and Chicken Foot. John originally appeared WCA #005 back in 2014 and returns to do a deep dive into his OneMic recording concept. -Enjoy In This Episode, We Discuss: OneMic Series Dynamics Acoustics Placement Tempo 2 Track as Multi-Track Ribbon Mics Links and Show Notes: OneMIc on YouTube John's Site Shiny Eyes Studio Matt's Rant: Focus of Your Attention Credits: Guest: John Cuniberti Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Oct 27, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
WCA #567 with Gena Johnson – Listening to Artists, Keeping Overhead Low, Career Champions, and Glitter Walls
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Grammy Winning producer/engineer/mixer Gena Johnson who has worked with Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile, and John Prine. Enjoy. In This Episode, We Discuss: Leave your ego at the door Make people feel comfortable Listen to the artist Labels are business partners Word of mouth work Feminine energy in production Women in the industry Classical voice training for 12 years Internship at Welcome 1979 Learned tape machines and soldering Assisting at Nashville studios First number one record Working at RCA Studio A Rewiring Studio A intensively Mentor Michael Wagner's influence Champions Vance Powell and Daryl Thorp Walls painted with glitter Keep overhead low Good attorney and manager combination Links and Show Notes: Gena's Website Gena on Instagram Vance Powell on WCA Matt Ross-Spang on WCA Darrel Thorpe on WCA Matt's Rant: Sonic Intrusion Revisited Credits: Guest: Gena Johnson Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith