#20: The Rhythm of My Heart with Marc Jordan

In this episode of Sold 4 a Song, Terrance Sawchuk sits down with legendary songwriter Mark Jordan, the creator of “Rhythm of My Heart” and a writer whose songs have been recorded by Diana Ross, Rod Stewart, Joe Cocker, Manhattan Transfer, Bonnie Raitt, Cher, and more. Mark shares the untold story behind writing “Rhythm of My Heart,” his lifelong relationship with dyslexia before it was understood, and how neurodiversity became a creative advantage rather than a limitation. From CBC transcription sessions and LA studio legends to publishing blind spots and royalty realities, this conversation explores how value is created—and often lost—inside the music industry. This episode goes beyond hit songs. It’s a deep, human conversation about creative identity, confidence, ownership, and the quiet cost creators pay when their work outpaces their self-worth. It also examines music’s healing power through Mark’s work in music therapy with first responders, reminding us why music matters far beyond charts and market share. Takeaways Dyslexia and neurodiversity can be powerful creative strengths Writing a hit does not guarantee understanding or ownership of value Publishing systems often separate creators from awareness and control Creative confidence is shaped early—and can be reclaimed later Music’s value extends far beyond commercial success Direct creative integrity leads to longevity Industry myths often hide structural inequities Ownership and self-worth are deeply connected Music has measurable healing and therapeutic impact True success comes from alignment, not just accolades Titles Writing “Rhythm of My Heart” & the Hidden Cost of a Hit Dyslexia, Creativity, and Reclaiming Artistic Worth Sound Bites “Dyslexia isn’t a flaw—it’s my superpower.” “You can write a worldwide hit and still be disconnected from your value.” “Music heals people long before it pays them.” Chapters 00:00 Writing “Rhythm of My Heart” 05:48 Dyslexia, Confidence, and Creative Identity 12:30 Early Career, CBC, and Learning by Ear 20:10 LA Studios, Publishing, and Industry Blind Spots 31:40 Rod Stewart, Hits, and the Cost of Success 41:55 Music Therapy and Healing Through Song 53:20 Reclaiming Worth, Ownership, and Longevity Keywords music industry, songwriting, Rhythm of My Heart, Mark Jordan, dyslexia, neurodiversity, creative worth, publishing, ownership, royalties, music therapy, artist sustainability, creative confidence, Sold 4 a Song Sold 4 a Song™ Podcast Hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter, producer, artist, mixer, and entrepreneur. Sold 4 a Song™ is a living exploration of creative worth, ownership, and the true value of music—inside the systems that monetize it. If this episode resonates, you can follow the work at sold4asong.com.