Too Late To Quit

Artie Tobia has the ability to stop anyone in their tracks with just a glance.  Walk up to him after a show and you'll be met with a bear hug and a genuinely warm connection.  When I was just starting to make music in New York City, Artie always made space for me to play in true listening rooms in the city, places where songs were meant to be heard.  He's someone who has advised me throughout my own musical journey and who truly lives and leads with abundance and from a place of service. Fresh off his South by Southwest set with his phenomenal band, Redtail Revival, Artie stopped by the TLTQ Studios to record an incredible episode recounting many musical adventures.  He also does a stellar Optimus Prime imitation. Artie shares the story of how he became a musician, why cowboy boots have always been part of who he is, and how he creates his art.  A true renaissance man and authentic creative spirit, Artie Tobia is a songwriter, performer, actor, educator, and someone whose kindness has left a mark on thousands of people and will continue to do so.  Artie represents the true spirit of the Too Late To Quit family. Come along for the ride, and stay tuned for an absolutely rip-roaring live performance at the end of our interview. Catch Artie Tobia and Redtail Revival on tour: https://artietobia.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ARTIETOBIAREDTAILREVIVAL/    

John Smith is a living example of what can happen when you keep saying yes to the unexpected turns in life. I first met John back in 1994 when he and Dan Sabranek came to Viterbo University to perform as their duo Runaway. I was blown away by John's voice, his songwriting, and the way his songs stayed with me long after that night. I bought a CD in the student union, and honestly, I've been humming those melodies ever since.  That very CD has travelled with me through every move, every adventure over the past 32 years. Recently, I got back in touch with John, who graciously responded while he was literally in the middle of a cruise on the other side of the world. That warmth, openness, and genuine support for fellow songwriters is simply magnificent. What I love most is that even while preparing to release his tenth album, John still sees himself as a student of song. That's rare. To meet someone who has accomplished so much in the world of music (with the awards to prove it!) and still talks openly about learning is deeply inspiring, and very much in the spirit of what this podcast is about. John's entrance into music is truly remarkable.  It's the kind of story that sounds like it belongs in a song itself. At a young age, a guitar was literally thrown to him, and from there began a journey that took him from growing up in Iowa to becoming an internationally recognized songwriter and performer. This conversation is a reminder to trust your gut and your vibes, and to rememer that the universe is there to help us. I can't wait for you to hear my conversation with John. Without further adieu, let's all give a very warm welcome to the one and only, John Smith! https://johnsmithmusic.com/ John Smith new CD Fan-funding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=415nZ2KjW_4

Diana was kind enough to stop by the podcast early last year and she returned.  This time we decided to record the podcast in Diana's native language, Spanish.  If you are looking to practice your Spanish or if you know someone who loves music and speaks Spanish please be sure to take a listen and share this episode.  Diana's story is completely incredible and her persistence and resilience will remind you of how strong a person can be.  I am confident that when you listen to this episode, where Diana invites us into her world, you will be truly inspired to chase down your dreams! While I was editing this podcast it made me think of all my Spanish teachers throughout my life who encouraged me to keep practicing.  I never imagined that one day I would be able to conduct a podcast interview in my second language.  Learning Spanish has opened up so many doors that I would have never discovered if I only spoke English.  Thanks to learning how to speak Spanish I ended up meeting the love of my life and my greatest supporter, my wife Margarita. Diana tuvo la amabilidad de acompañarnos nuevamente en el podcast, después de haber estado con nosotros a comienzos del año pasado. Esta vez decidimos grabar el episodio en su idioma natal, el español. Si estás buscando practicar tu español, o conoces a alguien que ama la música y habla español, te invito a escuchar este episodio y compartirlo. La historia de Diana es realmente increíble, y su persistencia y resiliencia son un recordatorio de lo fuerte que puede llegar a ser una persona. Estoy seguro de que al escuchar este episodio, donde Diana nos abre las puertas de su mundo, te vas a sentir verdaderamente inspirado a perseguir tus sueños. Mientras editaba este podcast, me puse a pensar en todos los profesores de español que tuve a lo largo de mi vida y que siempre me animaron a seguir practicando. Nunca imaginé que algún día iba a poder hacer una entrevista para un podcast en mi segundo idioma. Aprender español me ha abierto muchísimas puertas que jamás habría descubierto si solo hablara inglés. Gracias a haber aprendido español terminé conociendo al amor de mi vida y a mi mayor apoyo: mi esposa Margarita.

On this episode of Too Late to Quit, I sit down with Austin singer-songwriter Claudia Gibson, whose music blends folk at its core with elements of rock, bluegrass and Celtic, creating a sound that feels both expansive and deeply personal. In our conversation, Claudia reflects on her early years making rock music in her twenties, and her current musical era where she has returned to songwriting with a new sense of purpose, creating work rooted in real experience, family history, and emotional truth.   A 1st place winner of the Woody Guthrie Songwriting Contest and a Kerrville New Folk finalist, Claudia approaches songwriting with a methodical, almost historian-like discipline.  In the tradition of storytellers like Bruce Springsteen and Joni Mitchell, her songs are grounded in lived experience, carefully observed details, and a deep respect for craft, never rushed, never accidental. Her most recent album, The Fields of Chazy, reflects that philosophy. We talk about Claudia's songwriting process, her razor sharp sense of humor and her ability to turn a song prompt into a song that will stop you in your tracks. Facebook.com/claudiagibsonmusic        

On today's episode of Too Late To Quit, Jeannine Higgins drops by the studio to share what she calls her "new musical journey." Although Jeannine has been singing all her life, she didn't release her first album, the self-titled Jeannine Higgins, until she was in her forties. And when she finally stepped into the studio, she went all in, pure DIY style. Jeannine even designed the striking album cover herself.   Her second album, Shadow, followed soon after, and her third is already taking shape in a creative mind that finds inspiration in places you wouldn't typically expect. Once you hear how and where she crafts her lyrics and melodies, I think you'll be inspired to try her process yourself.  I'll give you a hint; it's where we went before Amazon existed. When I asked Jeannine how she found the courage to begin and to push past the negative voices telling her she was "too old" she told me something that hit me straight in the heart: "I was so scared… but I wanted it so much." I feel that Jeannine's honesty and vulnerability are the core of her songs that will bring you along on her journey.  In this episode, we dig into the stories behind several tracks from her debut and her second record, Shadow. I'm confident that hearing Jeannine's journey will help awaken that voice inside you that says, "It's the perfect time to start." https://www.jeanninehiggins.com/ https://open.spotify.com/artist/63KP1rnnmecxxlDYjWKoI8?si=c4eZpv84QuumV31XWH5rwA https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jeannine-higgins/1020847509  

In this episode of Too Late to Quit, I sit down with Jack Pinto — a former engineer turned  songwriter who started writing at the age of 60, proving it's always the right time to start creating your art.  What started as a simple writing prompt from his son turned into a full-on musical journey, fueled by his retirement gift to himself: a Gibson J-200 guitar that's now his main songwriting companion. Jack shares stories of growing up in New Jersey and buying his first guitar and teaching himself to play along to Mel Bay guitar books.  Jack also shares how his journey brought him to Austin just four years ago — where I met him at the New World Deli open mic. We talk about the power of reinvention, the courage it takes to begin something new later in life, and his personal motto: "What are you waiting for?"  Jack is a total vibe and played two songs for us all, "Ridin' on the wind" and "Turtles all the way down."  I can't wait for you to hear this episode of Too Late To Quit and hear Jack's tunes. Whether you're in your twenties or your seventies, this episode is a reminder that it's never too late to start writing your next chapter. Special shout out to the band: Hazy Smile (who Jack collaborates with from time to time) Hazy Smiles instagram: @hazysmilesband

In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Lynn, an Austin based singer-songwriter whose journey is a masterclass in courage and creativity.  Not long after learning how to play guitar in her 30's Rachel had her own residency in the music capital of the world.  As you listen to this episode, you will note the pattern that persists in Rachel's life; she sets here sights, does her homework, and creates her own success.  Through sheer persistence and heart, she's transformed fear into fuel — performing deeply felt songs that paint vivid, emotional pictures and have earned her recognition among fellow songwriters.  If you're lucky you can see her play in Austin. Rachel recently released her new single "A Changed Man," and in this episode she performs it live — along with a few of her other classic songs that showcase her rich storytelling and soulful delivery.  You will see why when Rachel plays, the room stops to listen. Rachel's amazing story is proof that it's never too late to step into your power.  I am so excited for you to hear Rachel's story because I know it's going to remind you of all that you are truly capable of doing in this life.  When Rachel shared her story I knew I had to invite her onto the Too Late To Quit pod.     You can stream Rachel's Music anywhere you listen to music. Listen to "A Changed Man" here: https://open.spotify.com/album/4WKccMbAqsBq4SH5pd0YV6?si=QdMauGyZSAmvbPlf7RiVjg    

Roger Edmundson is a true Renaissance Man who didn't start writing songs until he was 50 years old.  Known online (via his stubstack) as HighWideAndHandsome, Roger began his career in radio advertising.  With a general knack for turning a phrase, his ads were wildly successful and aired nationally.  I knew I had to have Roger on the podcast after I heard him perform his hit song "Rusty Things." at the famed NeWorlDeli in Austin, TX. What has always struck me is the depth and stop you in your tracks effect that Roger's songs have on audiences.  Roger shares with us: "I've taken this thing that I chose to start doing so late in life and embraced it to the point to where I'm saying yeah, heres what I'm doing."  On this episode of "Too Late To Quit" Roger performs, not one, not two, but three songs for us. Hop aboard to learn Roger's fascinating story that will teach you about why it's important to simply go out there and 'make stuff' and to embrace cosmonicity! Roger's substack:  https://substack.com/@highwideandhandsome  

On this episode of Too Late to Quit, I sit down with the unstoppable Naila Zaman — who shares her remarkable journey of making music Naila is a true force to be reckoned with.  She's humble, generous, a true collaborator and has this advice to share about the secret to her success and gaining over 2 million, that's right, 2 million fans on facebook: "I don't take people's advice. I stay with my own intuition. If I want to do music, I do it — and I absolutely love it." We talk about releasing music as a timeline of personal growth, why perfection is overrated, and how her adventurous spirit has led to an incredible life around the globe. Naila reminds us that "It's not too late to do anything. What makes you happy might not make others happy — so do what makes you happy." I'm so excited for you to hear Naila's amazing story because it is a terrific example of why it is always the right time for all of us to start and keep creating. You can hear Naila's songs anywhere you listen to music! Spotify: Naila Zaman https://open.spotify.com/artist/413edDB4qL8GIPETgp0HMD?si=xuFCITaTREWQihyy8XoZTwYoutube: https://www.facebook.com/naila.zaman.singer https://www.youtube.com/user/nailarehmani https://www.instagram.com/nailazamansinger    

On this episode of Too Late to Quit, I sit down with Diana Naranjo, a Colombian singer-songwriter from Manizales with one of the smoothest voices you'll ever hear—and a story that'll stay with you long after the episode ends. After facing a major setback that took her away from singing for three years, Diana returned to music with even more depth, soul, and passion. Her beautifully written and produced songs have reached hundreds of thousands of listeners on YouTube, and her dedication to her craft is nothing short of inspiring.  She also has an amazing presence on TikTok and Instagram. We talk about her life growing up in Colombia, her journey through silence, and the relentless creative fire that brought her back to the mic. If you need a reminder that it's never too late to reclaim your passion—or that your voice will always find a way—this one's for you. Diana's socials: Instagram: @diananaranjomusic TikTok: @diananaranjomusic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DianaNaranjo

I just released my first new single in 3 years, 'Superstar' and I want to share with you some things I've had on my mind the past few months.  I ruminate over the perception of age and about the idea that your brain is still going to feel young and spry when you are 20 or 30 or 40 or...gasp, even 50 and beyond! I also share a little about what the promotion experience has been like with 'Superstar' and some of the ways I'm promoting the song. Most importantly, remember that wherever you are on your path, I'm rooting for you!  You got this!

In this episode I get to interview Allan Finn who has been creating music almost his entire life.  Allan and I talk about his first musical inspirations and a very special saxophone that he was gifted.  Allan also shares his advice on how to get your creations out into the world and lets us into his musical universe.   Listen to Allan's wonderful music project with Mike Rowe; Incremental Progress and their song: "Brother Martin (Just Another Day)" on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lS3wnsKGvTI

Have you ever felt like you didn't belong and that somehow you got in without anyone noticing?  I promise you are not alone.  In this episode I talk about working hand in hand with fear and the benefits of doing things while scared.

Stephon Lyons is a phenomenal singer-songwriter and one of the most talented stage performers I have ever seen live.  No matter where Stephen is playing, he turns the entire room into a stadium filled to capacity.  I got to spend some time interviewing Stephen about his first musical encounters and learned about how he began his recording career.  Check out Stephen Lyon's latest album fall on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2drJLh0gXTJZjwh9DUJYe9?si=kxuLRdGmQv-1OltCFS1fQw. Be sure to check out his phenomenal cover of "Bridge over troubled water."

Often times we get ideas zooming past us, right in front of our eyes.  I encourage you to reach out and grab them!  See what magic they hold!

It's very easy to enter into decision making paralysis when you are working on your new art.  How do you break through that when you have thousands of decisions to make?  In this episode I talk about "ye olde overwhelm" and the tricks I use to break through.  You got this!

Do you ever find yourself feeling down because it's been too long since you've created any art?  Did you take some time off?  That's ok!  We all walk our own paths and our own timelines and we will eventually arrive exactly where we need to be.  It's always the right time to start and create your art!

Tyler Whitford stops by the Podquest to muse on art, creativity and why he brought a copy of the 1985 film Volunteers (starring John Candy and Tom Hanks) on his trip to Ghana as a member of the Peace Corp.  Tyler generously shares his thoughts on how his ability to downshift and take things at a different speed has proven to be a wonderful life strategy.  Buckle up as we travel to a town somewhere between creativity and inspiration, it's just ahead a few miles.  Let's. Go.

Are you ever filled with wild dreams and ideas on a Sunday night and you wake up on Monday and they are nowhere to be seen?  You've checked every corner of your domicile and poof!  Nada.  Welcome to the first day of the rest of your life.  Dive in and being your Podquest of discovering your inner artist!  Lets. Go.

In our inagural episode (hurrah!) I talk about the idea of giving yourself permission to pursue that dream that is hiding in your heart and learning how to bare it to the world.  I share stories of what my journey has been like and why I still keep making music.  This is your sign to dust off that guitar, pick up that paintbrush, register for that photgraphy class, because your time is now!  Let's. Go.