PODCAST · music
Secret Sonics
by Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner
Join mix engineers Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner as they team up to discuss the real-world trials and triumphs of music production. Tactical advice on skill development, mixing mindsets, personal branding, and achieving work-life rhythm in an evolving industry. The motivation and strategic insights you need to build your dream creative career in music and audio. Fresh episodes every week.
Episodes
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#256 - The Subtle Art of Layering Percussion
Ben and Carl share some of the techniques they use to add percussive depth without cluttering your mix. Learn why texture beats rhythm, how to stretch samples for supernatural groove, and the specific workflow for making percussion serve your song instead of competing with it. Discover: Why…
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#255 - Energy Vampires Are Killing Your Career
What happens when a successful music producer realizes he’s been working with the wrong people for years? Carl reveals the moment everything changed after his first child was born, and why he now prioritizes client personalities over everything else. The conversation gets deep about energy...
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#254 - The Shelf-Life of Major Credits
Learn the three essential principles that turn your biggest credits into sustainable income, why Grammy winners still struggle to find work, and how to position yourself so clients see your rate as a steal instead of an expense. Carl shares real strategies from working with 15+ Grammy-winning...
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#253 - Dave Stagl: Leaving Artists Speechless with Dolby Atmos
Learn why one of the most experienced immersive audio engineers believes most people are approaching Dolby Atmos completely wrong, and discover the emotional framework that’s helping artists create deeper connections with their fans. Plus, find out what producers should actually look for when...
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#252 - The NEW Business of Mixing
What happens when a mixing engineer accidentally builds clients in 30 countries while living in Pennsylvania? Carl discovered that global currency differences and economic crashes might be the secret weapon most audio professionals are completely ignoring. Discover: Why COVID permanently shifted...
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#251 - Context Context Context (Vocals Pt2)
What makes a vocal feel perfectly placed… or totally disconnected? This week, we’re getting way past plugin chains and diving into the real work of vocal mixing: context. We’re talking about how to make vocals live in a mix, not just sit on top of it. Because getting a vocal to shine isn’t just...
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Quick Announcement: Taking a Week Off to Celebrate 6 Years and 250 Episodes
Quick Announcement: Taking a Week Off to Celebrate 6 Years and 250 Episodes - because we deserve it!
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#250 - Are We Making Vocals Too Perfect? (Pt1)
Two cranky engineers accidentally reveal why your technically perfect vocals sound emotionally dead In this episode, Ben and Carl dive into why the "mistakes" you're fixing might be the only thing keeping your vocals human. From pre-production psychology to multi-de-esser philosophy, they…
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#249 - Are We Hearing the Bass, or Just Feeling It? (Pt2)
In this episode, Ben & Carl get into the gritty business of making bass actually work in a mix. Not just technically — but emotionally, musically, and physically. We challenge each other’s instincts, admit when we’re wrong, and debate who should own the sub: the bass or the kick? Spoiler: it...
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#248 - Our Wildly Different Bass Philosophies (Pt1)
We didn’t mean to go this deep—but here we are. This week, we cracked open the bass rabbit hole and just kept falling. What started as a casual chat about tracking techniques quickly turned into a full-on audio archaeology dig. Fingerstyle vs. pick. Flatwounds vs. roundwounds. Phase issues. Amp...
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#247 - The Drummer's Divide: Two Wildly Different Approaches to Drum Production
Think there's only one "right way" to record and mix drums? Think again. In this revealing episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into their completely opposite approaches to drum production. Despite working from opposite ends of the spectrum, they discover they're ultimately chasing the same emotional...
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#246 - Template Updates: The Unsung Hero of Efficient Mixing
In this "nerdy episode," Carl and Ben dive into a topic that affects many producers but rarely gets attention: updating your mixing templates. They explore how these living documents should evolve alongside your workflow, highlighting how small adjustments can lead to significant time savings and...
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#245 - Why You’re Afraid to Charge More (And What To Do About It)
Raising your rates sounds simple… until you actually try to do it. In this special episode, Carl breaks down the real reasons studio pros avoid increasing their prices - and why most of those reasons are based on fear, not facts. Carl pulls from 20+ years of experience helping producers and...
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#244 - You Don't Need Permission: Why Creatives Hold Back & How to Move Forward
In this episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into the psychology of permission-seeking that stops so many creative professionals from taking the next step in their careers. Through the story of an artist hesitant to perform her first solo show, they explore why we often wait for external validation...
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#243 - Creating Unforgettable Client Experiences
How do you create such an amazing client experience that artists wouldn't dream of working with anyone else? Carl unpacks key insights from Will Guidara's "Unreasonable Hospitality" and explores how to apply these principles to studio businesses. Discover practical ways to transform client...
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#242 - Limitations > Creativity
Why do children create fearlessly while professional producers get stuck staring at blank DAW sessions? In this insightful conversation, Ben and Carl explore the counterintuitive truth that creative freedom comes from embracing constraints, not avoiding them. From Sufjan Stevens' state-themed...
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#241 - Inspiration: Where to Find It, How to Nurture It, and Why It Matters
Ben and Carl tackle the all-too-familiar challenge of creative burnout and share surprisingly effective ways to reignite that creative spark. When you're creatively stuck, listening to new music might be more valuable than trying to create. This episode is all about how rediscovering the joy of...
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#240 - Forging New Directions: Chasing What Feels Right in Music & Creativity
What happens when you finally get an ADHD diagnosis at 39 and start noticing real changes in how you work? Or when you realize you’re craving more human energy in a music world that’s feeling increasingly robotic? In this episode, Carl and Ben unpack the creative shifts they’re making—from Carl’s...
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#239 - Reference Mixes: When They Should (and Shouldn’t) Guide Us
In this episode, Ben and Carl dive into that tricky moment we all face: deciding when to follow a reference mix and when to trust your own instincts. Sparked by Carl's current remix project, they get real about the messy balancing act of honoring artist expectations while still trusting your gut....
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#238 - Time Management: Why Productivity Advice Fails Music Pros
In this candid episode, Ben and Carl tackle the unique time management challenges faced by music professionals - especially ones with ADHD and kids. They explore why many popular productivity techniques fall flat in the real world of constant interruptions, creative flow states, and the...
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#237 - Playlist Psychology: Organizing Your Work to Impress the RIGHT Clients
In the competitive world of music production, your portfolio playlist is more than just a collection of tracks - it's a strategic tool for attracting your ideal clients. Join Ben and Carl as they dive deep into the art and science of curating the perfect playlist to showcase your work. From what...
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#236 - How to Know When Your Song is Finished
In this deep-dive episode, Ben and Carl explore the challenging question that plagues every music producer: "How do you know when it's done?" Working backwards through the production chain, they break down the decision-making process at each stage of music creation, from mastering to tracking....
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#235 - Emotional Cues in Mixing: Crafting a Powerful Listener Experience
In this episode, Ben and Carl dive deep into the art of using emotional cues in mixing and production to create a more immersive and impactful listening experience. Rather than just focusing on technical settings, they explore how moment-to-moment emotional shifts in a song can guide mix...
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#234 - Rethinking Sonic Identity
Remember last episode when we talked about finding your "sonic signature"? Well, Carl had some revelations that completely flip that concept on its head. In this follow-up episode, we explore why searching for a single, definable "signature sound" might be the wrong approach entirely. Instead, we...
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#233 - Finding Your Sonic DNA: A Deep Dive into Musical Identity
What really shapes a mixer's signature sound in today's post-genre world? Ben and Carl explore the evolving nature of sonic signatures, from early career influences to streaming-era adaptability. Discover how your musical foundations, early projects, and listening habits combine to create your...
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#232 - Setting (and Resetting) Goals for 2025
After an unexpected hiatus, Ben and Carl return with a candid conversation about goal-setting, life challenges, and finding balance in the audio industry. Ben and Carl share their wins, setbacks, and evolving perspectives on what success looks like when juggling multiple priorities. Discover: How...
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#231 - Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
In this episode, Ben and Carl reveal why blindly pushing boundaries isn't the answer - and share their framework for intentionally shifting your comfort zone instead. Plus: real talk about raising rates without feeling like a jerk, why some producers thrive in chaos, and the art of making…
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#230 - Seasons of Growth
Ever feel like you're juggling too many transitions at once? In this episode of Secret Sonics, Carl and Ben get real about the challenges (and unexpected opportunities) of major life and business changes. From moving studios to streamlining services, they dive into what happens when your personal...
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#229 - Mix Like a Producer: Crafting Sonic Depth and Dimension
In this episode, Ben and Carl pull back the curtain on their approach for taking good mixes to the next level by implementing additional production. You'll get a peek into their fast-paced workflow, trying out new ideas without overthinking and how they get experimental with sound design.…
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#228 - Philip Weinrobe Part 2 - Trust and Authenticity in Music Production
In this episode, Ben and Carl continue their conversation with Phil Weinrobe and dive deep into the intricacies of trust-building and authentic music production in the studio. They explore the importance of clear and direct communication, the challenges of balancing perfection with creative...
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#227 - Philip Weinrobe Part 1 - Death by Perfection: Bringing Humanity Back to Records
In this episode, Ben and Carl reconnect with Phil Weinrobe to challenge common recording assumptions and share his refreshingly human-centered approach to music production. Why live tracking creates musical magic that overdubs can't replicate How breathing sounds act like a conductor's baton for...
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#226 - Why the Client Isn't Always Right (But Their Vision Is)
In this episode, Ben and Carl dive into the delicate art of handling mix revisions and collaborating with artists. After a brief hiatus, they return with fresh insights on: Why mix revisions aren't personal attacks on your skills or taste The balance between respecting the artist's vision while...
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#225 - Burnout and Overwhelm in the Audio Industry
In this candid episode, Ben and Carl open up about their personal struggles with burnout and overwhelm. This episode offers a raw, honest look at the realities of burnout in the audio industry, reminding listeners they're not alone in these struggles. Topics we discuss: The challenges of…
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#224 - Matt Huber Part 2 - The Mixer's Mastermind: Collaborative Learning and Leveling Up
In this enlightening follow-up, Matt Huber dives deeper into the collaborative nature of audio engineering, sharing insights on collective learning, building community, and evolving mixing techniques. Discover how fostering relationships with fellow engineers can accelerate your growth, why a...
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#223 - Matt Huber Part 1 - Mastering Loudness in the Streaming Era
In this illuminating episode, mixing engineer Matt Huber shares his deep dive into the complex world of loudness for streaming platforms. Discover the surprising factors that influence perceived loudness on Spotify, the unexpected benefits of strategic quietness, and how to craft mixes that...
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#222 - What We Wish We Knew When We Got Started
If you could start your audio career over in 2024, what would you do differently? Ben and Carl explore this thought-provoking question, sharing hard-won wisdom on striking the delicate balance between artistic growth and business savvy in today's music industry landscape. Discover practical...
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#221 - Dave McNair Part 2 - The Lifelong Learner's Guide to Mastering
In part two of our conversation with mastering legend Dave McNair, Dave offers a treasure trove of practical advice for aspiring mastering engineers. Hear why lifelong learning is the key to audio excellence and how to develop your critical listening skills to create timeless mixes and masters.…
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#220 - Dave McNair Part 1 - The Perpetual Balance of Taste and Technique
In this episode of Secret Sonics, mastering engineer extraordinaire Dave McNair shares his deep insights into the world of music production, mixing, and mastering. From the importance of taste in mastering to the technical nuances that can make or break a track, Dave offers invaluable advice for...
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#219 - Dana Nielsen Part 2 - Vocal Production Mastery
In this second part of our interview with Dana Nielsen, we dive deep into the world of vocal production. Dana shares his expertise on working with singers, from capturing great performances to the intricacies of vocal editing and comping. He offers invaluable insights into creating a comfortable...
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#218 - Dana Nielsen Part 1 - The Art of Studio Diplomacy
Grammy-nominated recording engineer and producer Dana Nielsen reveals the crucial "soft skills" that elevate great engineers above the rest. Drawing from his experiences working with industry giants like Rick Rubin, Rihanna, Adele, Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili Peppers (and countless more), Dana...
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#217 - Nick Nagurka Part 2 - The Psychology of Live Recording
In this second part of our interview with Nick Nagurka, we dive deeper into the human side of Nick’s approach to live band recording. Nick shares insights on creating a comfortable environment for artists, managing the pressure of performance, and maintaining the delicate balance between…
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#216 - Nick Nagurka Part 1 - Capturing Magical Moments (Live in the Room)
Welcome to the first interview episode of Secret Sonics 2.0! We're kicking off our revamped format with a bang, pulling back the curtain on the art and science of live band recording with engineer extraordinaire Nick Nagurka. Known for his work with Theo Katzman and Vulfpeck, Nick brings a fresh...
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#215 - Future-Proofing Your Music Business: Essential Strategies for Sustainable Success
Ben and Carl discuss key strategies for creating a sustainable and future-proof music production business. They explore topics like consistent lead generation, maintaining client relationships, adapting to industry trends, and differentiating yourself in a crowded market. Topics we discuss: The...
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Quick Announcement: The Platinum Pitch (Free Class)
“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkout
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#214 - Four Years of Growth: Reflections on Our Professional Journeys
Ben and Carl discuss their professional evolution since their first podcast encounter four years ago. They explore significant changes in equipment, mindset, and industry practices that have shaped their careers in music production and mixing. Topics we discuss: How better equipment revealed…
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Reissue: #058 with Carl Bahner - Forging a Creative Path in Production
Have a listen to the very first episode of Secret Sonics featuring Carl Bahner! Back in August 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Ben and Carl formed a friendship. We thought it would be fun to revisit this episode and explore Carl's origin story while we take a break to prepare for…
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#213 - How to Mix an Arena-Ready Backing Track
In this episode, Carl shares his recent experience creating a backing track for a high-stakes live event. Discover how mixing for a live venue requires a complete shift in priorities and techniques compared to crafting tracks for streaming platforms. From exaggerating dynamics to strategically...
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#212 - How Our Instrumental Backgrounds Shape Our Production & Mixing
In this episode, Ben and Carl discuss how their respective backgrounds as a bassist and a drummer shape their approach to music production and mixing. They delve into the influence of their live performance experiences and traditional training on their production techniques, emphasizing...
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#211 - On-Stage Lessons for Studio Success
In this episode, Ben and Carl discuss the transition from being live performers to working in the studio. They share personal anecdotes and insights into the skills and experiences that have informed their studio work, such as checking egos, understanding tempo, effective communication, conflict...
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#210 - Your Opinion Wanted: The State of the Podcast
Join Ben and Carl for a peek behind the podcast curtain as they reflect on the journey of Secret Sonics and explore exciting new directions for the show. In this candid conversation, they share their vision for weaving in fresh perspectives through guest interviews while preserving the magic of...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Join mix engineers Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner as they team up to discuss the real-world trials and triumphs of music production. Tactical advice on skill development, mixing mindsets, personal branding, and achieving work-life rhythm in an evolving industry. The motivation and strategic insights you need to build your dream creative career in music and audio. Fresh episodes every week.
HOSTED BY
Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Secret Sonics have?
Secret Sonics currently has 285 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Secret Sonics about?
Join mix engineers Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner as they team up to discuss the real-world trials and triumphs of music production. Tactical advice on skill development, mixing mindsets, personal branding, and achieving work-life rhythm in an evolving industry. The motivation and strategic insights...
How often does Secret Sonics release new episodes?
Secret Sonics publishes regularly with 285 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Secret Sonics?
You can listen to Secret Sonics on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Secret Sonics?
Secret Sonics is created and hosted by Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner.
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