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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Jun 2, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min
WCA #546 with Elad Marish –Surf Culture, The Magic of KISS, Guitar Obsession, Post Production Powerhouse, and The Growth of Swell
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Elad Marish, co-founder and producer at Swell Music + Sound, a leading creative audio agency based in San Francisco. Elad and his team at Swell have brought music, sound design, and audio branding to high-profile clients including Apple, Nike, Google, and Uber, working on everything from global ad campaigns to immersive brand experiences. In This Episode, We Discuss: The Magic of KISS Wearing Out Record Needles Hating Piano Surf Culture Guitar Obsession Early Parenthood Painful Band Experiences Post Production Powerhouse Growing Swell Sound Navigating COVID Staying Lean Links and Show Notes: Swell Elad on Linkedin Matt's Rant: Getting Some Space Credits: Guest: Elas Marish Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
May 27, 2025 · 1 hr 18 min
WCA #545 with Howie Beck - Musician to Producer, 4 Tracks to Pro Tools, Independence, Polishing Turds, and Saving the Day
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Howie Beck who is a multi Juno nominated Mixer, Producer and musician located in Toronto who has mixed or produced music by artists as diverse as Feist, Charlotte Day Wilson, Barenaked Ladies, Chilly Gonzales, Ron Sexsmith, and the Weather Station amongst many more. Enjoy! In This Episode, We Discuss: Musician to Producer 4 Tracks to Pro Tools Challenges & Rewards of Audio Production Polishing Turds Smart Financial Decisions Health Care Challenges Problems with Apple and ATMOS Independence to Set Schedule Saving the Day Links and Show Notes: Howie's Website Matt's Rant: Small Chunks Credits: Guest: Howie Beck Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
May 19, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
WCA #544 with Benedikt Hain – Helping Bands Record Better, Mixing in Bavaria, Revisions, and Client Filter
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mixing engineer and podcaster Benedikt Hain. Benedikt discussed his journey from growing up in Bavaria to becoming a full-time mixing engineer and running a studio called Outback Recordings . Benedikt has worked with with bands like Pulley and Swallow's Rose and labels like Warner Music and SBÄM Records. Enjoy! In This Episode, We Discuss: • Remote Mixing In Bavaria • Mindset and Songwriting • Exclusive Focus on Mixing • Client Revisions • Mixing Heavy Rock • Lessons Learned From His Podcast • Client Filter Links and Show Notes: RIP Dan Jasper WCA #027 Studio Website The Self Recording Band Special Site for WCA Listeners Matt's Rant: Enjoying the Journey Credits: Guest: Benedikt Hain Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
May 13, 2025 · 1 hr 20 min
WCA #543 with Sarah Register –Mastering, 10,000 Hours at Once, NYC & The Nervous System, Avant Garde, and PLaying with Kim Gordon
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Mastering engineer, Composer, and Guitarist Sarah Register. Her mastering clients include Faye Webster, Channel Tres, Jeffrey Lewis, Alice Longyu Gao, Lee "Scratch" Perry, S.G. Goodman, Wye Oak and many more. In This Episode, We Discuss: Identity & Balance Avant Garde Egoic Attachment to Past Methods Health and Sanity NYC & The Nervous System 10,000 Hours at Once Playing with Kim Gordon Touring Mastering In The Box Being Flexible on Rate Links and Show Notes: Sarah’s Site Matt's Rant: The Battle for Organization Credits: Guest: Sarah Register Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
May 6, 2025 · 1 hr 35 min
WCA #542 with Emre Ramazanoglu – ATMOS For Brian Eno, Session Drumming, Fashion Shows, Family Balance, and ADHD
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes producer, engineer, mixer, drummer, and composer Emre Ramazanoglu who has worked on projects for Brian Eno, David Bowie, Noel Gallagher Nova Twins and many more. In This Episode, We Discuss: ATMOS for Brian Eno Ziggy Stardust. & Ken Scott Playing on Pillows Mimicking Reverb Fashion Shows Session Drumming Giving a Shit ATMOS Success Apple Issues Dolby Curve Know Your Worth Family Balance ADHD Links and Show Notes: Emre's Site Emre's Band Matt's Rant: Embrace the Unpredictable Credits: Guest: (Current Guest) Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Apr 28, 2025 · 42 min
WCA #541 with Michael Roache – Producing Game Sound, Blizzard, Formosa, Mental Health, and Storytelling Across Mediums
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Producer Michael Roache who has worked for Halo/KDA, Blizzard, Formosa, Rebound, and TNM. Now he is launching a new company called Broken Stick. Enjoy. In This Episode, We Discuss: Pyramind Producing Game Sound Blizzard Formosa Mental Health Storytelling Across Mediums Consulting Links and Show Notes: Broken Stick Productions Matt's Rant: Staying Well Rounded Credits: Guest: Michael Roache Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Apr 22, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
WCA #540 with Max Dearing – Struck by Lightening, Building a Studio, Pounding Sand, Inflation, and Fasteners.
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes recording and mix engineer at Dark Pine Studios, Max Dearing, to discuss his brush with being struck by lightening, the healing nature of music, and building a studio. Enjoy! In This Episode, We Discuss: North Carolina Talent Journey Into Music and Recording Recording Studio Design Studio Building Experience Critical Measurement Construction Challenges Being Struck by Lightening Live Sound Production Links and Show Notes: Dark Pine Studios Matt's Rant: Revisiting Imagination Credits: Guest: Max Dearing Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Apr 15, 2025 · 1 hr 13 min
WCA #539 with Mixerman –New Book, Five Planes of Space, Studio Design & Monitoring, Budgeting & The Punter
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Mixerman (aka Eric Sarafin) to talk about his new book MIXERMAN'S Ultimate Guide to PRODUCING Records, Music & Songs. Enjoy! In This Episode, We Discuss: Studio Design & Monitoring Mixerman's New Book Producing Philosophy & Process Five Planes of Space The Punter Budgeting & Money Music Business Landscape Links and Show Notes: New Book Mixerman's SIte Mixerman on WCA #202 Patriot Series Matt's Rant: Finding Your Place Credits: Guest: Mixerman Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Apr 8, 2025 · 1 hr 46 min
WCA #538 with Greg Norman – Steve Albini, Electrical Audio, Community, Family, & Institutional Knowledge
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Greg Norman of Electrical Audio to the show to talk about his journey, Steve Albini, the future of Electrical Audio and much more. In This Episode, We Discuss: State of Electrical Audio Steve Albini's Influence Greg's Interest in Sound Internship with Steve Growth and Independence The Financial Aspect Legacy and The Future Links and Show Notes: Electrical Audio Greg's Site Yamaha Sound Reinforcement Matt's Rant: Visiting Other Studios Credits: Guest: Greg Norman Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Mar 31, 2025 · 54 min
WCA #537 with Peter Craft – Napa Destination Studio, Bonding Experiences, Life in Tech, Songwriters as Magicians, and Inspiration of Scenes
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau chats with Peter Craft of Boxer Lodge Studio in Napa. From a tech career to full-time audio engineering, Peter shares his inspiring path back to music. Hear about his early recording dreams, building a destination studio, recording philosophy, and working with the vibrant Bay Area Americana scene. A journey of passion, creativity, and community. Enjoy! In This Episode, We Discuss: The Day to Day Past Experiences Influences & Philosophy Studio and Gear Career Transition Pricing Love for Audio Unforeseen Expenses Links and Show Notes: Peter's Studio Matt's Rant: Thank you! Credits: Guest: Peter Craft Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Mar 25, 2025 · 55 min
WCA #536 with Robert Kirby – Leaving Home, Tahoe, Education, Fantasy Studios, Growth, and The Noise Shop
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Bay Area producer and engineer Robert Kirby, who shares his journey from audio student to studio intern, assistant, and ultimately to running his own studio space. Enjoy! In This Episode, We Discuss: Building a Sustainable Audio Career Gaining Experience at Legendary Studios Creating Opportunities Through Relocation Starting With DIY Audio Experimentation Leveraging Early Interests for Growth Embracing Hands-On Studio Education Transitioning From Hobbyist to Professional Pursuing Formal Audio Education Intentionally Learning From World-Class Sessions Growing Through Industry Mentorships Staying Versatile With Income Streams Building Reputation Through Referrals Links and Show Notes: Robert's Studio Scott Evans on WCA #256 Scott Evans on WCA #010 Bruce Kaphan on WCA #030 Matt's Rant: A Different Way To Handle Money Credits: Guest: Robert Kirby Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Mar 17, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
WCA #535 with Case Newcomb – COVID Career Shift, Industry Connections, Taking Command, Learning Process, and Customer Service
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes San Francisco based Producer, Engineer and Mixer Case Newcomb. Case works out of many studios including Hyde Street and 25th Street Recording and has worked on projects for Ishmael Reed, NVRMAN, and Rafe Stepto. Enjoy! In This Episode, We Discuss: Audio Journey COVID Career Shift City College Program First Real Mix Passion For Audio Mentors Industry Connections Early Mixing Struggles Taking Command Customer Service Learning Process Career Aspirations Links and Show Notes: Case's Site Case on Instagram WCA # 157 with Dana Jae WCA #018 with David R. Bowels Matt's Rant: The People Around You Credits: Guest: Case Newcomb Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Mar 10, 2025 · 58 min
WCA #534 with Brendan Duffey – Genre Diversity, Grounded Mindset, Career Evolution, Peaceful Living, and A Berklee Degree
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Grammy Winning Producer, Mixing and Mastering Engineer Brendan Duffey who has worked on projects for Bruce Dickinson, Devon Townsend, Sheryl Crow, Kendrick Lamar. Brendan is also the Senior ATMOS mastering engineer for Million Dollar Snare. In This Episode, We Discuss: Relocation Studio build Atmos mixing Hip-hop projects Bruce Dickinson Genre diversity Berklee degree Teaching plans Pricing growth Networking Grounded mindset Peaceful living Career evolution Encouragement Links and Show Notes: Brendan Duffey on WCA #231 Jack Endino on WCA #174 Brendan's Site Million Dollar Snare Matt's Rant: Dealing with Challenges Credits: Guest: Brendan Duffey Host/Engineer/Editing/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Mar 3, 2025 · 1 hr 18 min
WCA #533 with Mike Fraser – Mixing, Psychology, Workflow, Managers, and Starting as a Janitor
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Legendary rock mix engineer Mike Fraser to discuss his 40+ year career crafting iconic records for Aerosmith, AC/DC, & more. In This Episode, We Discuss: Mixing approach – Keeping it minimalist & focusing on the song Time management & career longevity in the music business Building trust with high-profile artists in the studio Gear & workflow preferences – Why he sticks to SSL consoles & NS-10s Adapting to the industry’s shift to digital & remote work Navigating band dynamics & working with creative personalities Dropping Out of School Starting as a Janitor Links and Show Notes: Mike's Website Matt's Rant: Reignite the Spark! Credits: Guest: Mike Fraser Host/Engineer/Editor/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Feb 24, 2025 · 59 min
WCA #532 with George Bokos –Studios In Athens, Nap Time, Working With Remote Clients, and Sunlight Over Isolation
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes George Bokos who runs Grind House Studios Athens in Athens, Greece. George has worked with numerous bands including ALL SINS UNDONE, CALYCES, COSTIN CHIOREANU, and BLACK KAISER. In This Episode, We Discuss: From Musician to Studio Owner Studios In Athens Working With Remote Clients Working with Drummers Nap Time in Athens Sunlight Over Isolation Choosing Gear That Makes an Impact Being Part of The Team Links and Show Notes: Grind House Studios Athens Matt's Rant: 30 Second Burst Method Credits: Guest: George Bokos Host/Engineer/Producer/Editing: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Feb 17, 2025 · 1 hr 10 min
WCA #531 with Travis Ference– LA Fires, Rebuilding a Studio, Insurance Lessons, Backup Strategies & Community Support
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer, engineer, and mixer Travis Ference who has worked worked on projects for Imagine Dragons, John Mayer, Ariana Grande, and Bush, to name a few. Travis is also the host of the podcast Progressions: Success in the Music Industry. Travis recently lost his studio in the fires in Altadena and this episode is all about that. In This Episode, We Discuss: The LA fire’s impact on Travis’s home and studio The challenges of rebuilding after disaster Community support in times of crisis Key lessons on insurance and coverage gaps Backup strategies for audio professionals Using AI and cloud services for recovery Planning a flexible studio rebuild First responders and aid efforts Protecting your gear, business, and home Links and Show Notes: Travis's site Travis's podcast https://musicares.org/ https://www.wearemovingtheneedle.org/ Matt’s Rant: Planning for The Worst Credits: Guest: Travis Ference Host/Engineer/Editing/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Feb 11, 2025 · 59 min
WCA #530 with Justin Perkins – Mastering, Client Experience, Data Archival & Backup, Automation & Templates and Streamlined Communication
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Mastering Engineer Justin Perkins who has worked with The Replacements, Rufus Wainwright, En Vogue, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Shania Twain, Jellyfish, Johnny Cash, The All-American Rejects, Rickie Lee Jones, Donna Summer, Busta Rhymes, Jason Mraz, Lucero, Hanson, New Kids on the Block , Sum 41, Asia Justin Perkins' success as a mastering engineer is not solely based on his audio skills but also on his meticulous approach to business operations. His emphasis on automation, client communication, and data management provides valuable lessons for anyone in the audio industry seeking to optimize their workflow and deliver exceptional service. Enjoy! In This Episode, We Discuss: Streamlined Project Intake & Communication Automation & Templates Client Experience Mastering Workflow & Tools Data Archival & Backup Links and Show Notes: Justin's Site WaveLab: Mastering software. iZotope RX: Audio repair and quality control. Samply: Lossless audio delivery and approval platform. Use Code WCA20 OmniFocus: Task management software. Backblaze: Cloud backup service. NeoFinder: Hard drive cataloging software. Thunder Bay 8 and Mini 4 (OWC): External hard drive enclosures. Carbon Copy Cloner: Backup software. Matt's Rant: Piggy Backing off of Victory Credits: Guest: Justin Perkins Host/Engineer/Editing/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Feb 4, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min
WCA #529 with David Stagl – Worship Sound, Broadcast, Bruce Springsteen, Live Sound Mistakes, and Feedback City
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Mixing Engineer David Stagl who has worked on projects for or with North Point Community Church, Christ Fellowship(West Palm Beach, FL), Eagle Brook Church (Minneapolis, MN), musical artists: Kristian Stanfill, Jesus Culture, Passion, Phil Keaggy, North Point Music and in broadcast: Discovery Channel, HGTV. Corporate: Home Depot, Wyndham Vacations, and Motorola. In This Episode, We Discuss: Post Production Broadcast Audio Books Worship Sound Dolby ATMOS Live Sound Mistakes Audio Professionals in Religious Settings Immersive Audio for Churches Worship Audio Challenges and Solutions North Point Church Links and Show Notes: David's Site Matt's Rant: Humility in Audio Credits: Guest: David Stagl Host/Engineer/Editor/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Jan 27, 2025 · 52 min
WCA #528 with NAMM 2025 – Community, Gear We Saw, Companies We Like, Seminars, Good Shoes, and Drinking Water
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt is joined by Chris Selim from Mixdown Online ‪and Lij Shaw from Recording Studio Rockstars to discuss our NAMM 2025 experience. In This Episode, We Discuss: Wearing Good Shoes Drinking Water Community Gear We Saw Companies We Like Seminars at NAMM Podcaster and YouTuber Things Links and Show Notes: https://gracedesign.com/ https://gracedesign.com/product/m900-... https://www.audio-scape.com/ https://korneffaudio.com/plugins/ https://www.soundtoys.com/ https://microkits.net/ https://www.musikhack.com/ https://blinq.me/ Matt's Rant: Connecting With People At NAMM Credits: Guest: NAMM 2025 Host/Engineer/Editor/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith
Jan 20, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
WCA #527 with Owen Davies – Studio Design, Recording Everything, Tap Dancing, and Building THE Home Studio
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Engineer / Producer Owen Davies who has worked with Broken Teeth, Survival, Fangs Out, Netherhall, Yo Titan, and Brookhorse. In This Episode, We Discuss: Building THE Home Studio Working with a Studio Designer Navigating Studio Design Challenges Lessons from Early Studios Tap Dancing and Legal Battles Freelancing and Passion Projects Links and Show Notes: Owen's Studio Matt's Rant: Things You Should Charge For (In My Opinion) Credits: Guest: Owen Davies Host/Engineer/Editor/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith