Alex Krotz - Podcast Details

Shows

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsModern Music Release Strategy and PlanningReleases are the most important thing to get people to hear your music, and weather you’re an artist, or producer helping artists, you should listen to this to hear how you can make releases better. There really is no “Perfect” way to release music, but this is some of our findings and different things to think about when it comes to planning your releases and promotional packages. Having been apart of many releases ourselves, we talk about what we’ve seen more success with, and what we’ve seen flop. There’s lots to think about...2023-09-0452 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsMost regretted audio gear purchases & why AVID’s sale is worryingWe all have dumb purchases that we thought would be a great idea but weren’t quite worth it, and we also have those purchases we wish we had all along! That’s what we’re chatting about today! Plus I discuss my new laptop, what the Junos sent me, and of course the latest news about AVID getting purchased and why that’s kinda worrisome for creators. Pkew: Dumbest thing i ever done - https://youtu.be/HsFnnsi88n4 DIYRE Cloudlifter Clone - https://www.diyrecordingequipment.com/collections/studio-essentials/products/mb2 Sl...2023-08-2130 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsWhat is the perfect DAW? (For You)There's really no such thing as "the perfect DAW" (Digital Audio Workstation), however, there is a great DAW to suit everyone. A DAW needs to fit your needs and your workflow, and above all else, it needs to help you create your best, fastest, and easiest. For every person, those needs are different. In today's episode, I talk about this, since there is so much miss-information out there from people claiming the "perfect DAW" or "the BEST DAW" which, may be the case for them, but may not be at all for your needs. Things...2022-03-2325 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsAdding life into programmed Drums - Tips for Drum ProgrammingHere are some tips for programming drums, both for drummers and non-drummers! Malcolm Cottle and myself talk about things to pay attention to as well as some techniques to improve the authenticity and realism of programmed drums. Malcolm, a proficient drummer and programmer himself, discusses from a drummer perspective why learning to program is such a great skill for drummers in general to have at their disposal. While real drums are great (we all love them) it's nice to be able to program drums well, and if they are done well they can then be indistinguishable in...2022-03-1648 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsLet's talk about Software PiracyThis is a problem that hurts more people than you think. Plugin cracks and software piracy is something that plagues the music industry, and piracy of the music in general. I felt I needed to talk about it, discourage it, and explain why it hurts everyone. Please do your part, don't be part of the issue, and don't be a hypocrite. This is my little PSA about software Piracy, who it hurts and why it hurts more people than you think. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2022-03-0920 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsEveryone Perceives music differently, and how that effects our productions w. Jay RiehlWe don't really think about the different factors that influence how we perceive music, such as our upbringing, life experiences, emotions associated with different aspects of the genre, artist or listening environment, age, and many more things. In this episode, Jay Riehl and I discuss how that influences music creators and music listeners, and how you can't appeal to everyone. The only real north star of music creation is how you feel within yourself about what you're creating (and the feelings of the team involved) and you need to allow that to flourish. If you try to h...2022-03-0241 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe Authenticity of Modern Music and what's really hurting the creative processModern Music Production Techniques aren’t hurting music, modern consumption is demanding to much and not allowing artists to write properly, as much was meant to be written. This is most obvious and easy to talk about in many modern metal and rock productions where drummers aren’t given the time to really write their parts along the way and are instead brought in at the end of a production just to record. Drum parts are losing their authenticity because (in those situations) guitar players are writing the parts to go along with their guitar parts instead of drummers bein...2022-02-2346 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsLet's talk about Mix Notes - Guidelines to help your mix notes go smootherMix notes are something that all producers, engineers, and artists have to deal with, wether giving or receiving them, they are part of music creation. However, it seems like many people don't totally know what to expect from mix notes, or what the processes and protocols around them are, especially newer artists. In today's episode, that's what we discuss, 10 of my top tips for dealing tip mix notes. This goes for both artists, what to give and what to expect, as well as mix engineers who are looking at what is "the norm" (if there is such...2022-02-1639 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsA GREAT year of CREATIVITY! - 2021 Recap and a look forward!2021 was a great year! This episode I wanted to do a bit of a recap of the highlights of the year for ANAK Creates, and a look into what next year is going to bring! What are some of your top accomplishments creatively of the last year? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2021-12-2215 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsTop 5 Common Mixing Mistakes to avoid and take your mixes to the next level!In this episode I discuss the most common mistakes or oversights that I find people make in their mixes and productions. When giving my mix feedback, these are some of the most common threads of advice I keep giving. There's so much to cover, but this is a good overview of some common things to keep in mind while working on improving your mixes and productions! Check out my mix feedback! - anakcreates.ca/mixfeedback Use code HELLOFEEDBACK to get your first track free! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/a...2021-12-0831 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsHow to record yourself - As the artist, producer, and engineer w. Malcolm CottleIn this episode, I'm joined by our friend Malcolm Cottle to discuss the ups, the downs, and the technicals of confidently recording yourself as a one person show - the artist, producer, engineer or any combination thereof. Both Malcolm and I have been doing our own projects for years, where we need to be the creative brain as well as the technical brain in the project. While this is possible, there are a few tactics and safeguards we've developed and put in place to help us still achieve the best results possible. The biggest issue when you're d...2021-11-241h 19

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe best way to give notes and feedback - be a pleasure to work with and get the best resultsGiving Feedback, Mix Notes, Production Notes, basically giving your thoughts on someone’s creative outlet, is something that happens often, but need to be given in the right way. Well delivered thoughts, feedback or notes can go a long way to improve the project, and achieve the best outcome result, but can get there faster and strengthen the working relationship between those involved at the same time. In this episode I discuss how best to deliver that feedback to achieve the best results, and why it’s so important. I describe the best delivery method as the “compli...2021-11-1028 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsBudgeting a Record; Getting started with a minimal budgetWhen it comes to making a record, and more importantly the budgeting of the record, many new artists are unsure where to start. There are many questions, without a lot of honest answers out there. Every audio professional is out there trying to convince you that their services are needed and essential and worth the price. As an artist, you need to sift through the noise and figure out what you, and your project, need. “What can we do ourselves without really compromising quality?” “What should we be putting our money towards?” “Can we even make a rec...2021-11-0340 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe ANAK Creates Podcast [Trailer]Welcome to The ANAK Creates Podcast! I'm your host, Alex Krotz. My podcast is all about exploring the art of engineering and music production, what that means to different artists, producers and engineers and how it affects the creation process. Oh, and with a healthy dose of music business thrown in. We talk about all things related to music production, audio engineering, editing and mixing, career development, and the music industry. Learn from myself and my guests as we give you different perspectives and inspire your productions. I share my experience and insight of...2021-10-2901 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsTOO MANY plugins! A guide to purchasing plugins for the right reasons w. Malcolm CottleIn this week’s episode, I’m joined once again by Malcolm Cottle to talk about plugins, one of our favorite things. We discuss how lazy engineering can result from purchasing plugins without learning how to use them. To further knowledge growth, using a plugin need go beyond picking a preset, and dive into actually understand the fundamentals of why the plugin is doing what it’s doing, and how it needs to be changed to best fit into your workflow or your mix. Everything in music creation is contextual. We dive into the fa...2021-10-271h 02

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsDon't Pay for Ego | Being cautious about who your hiring and what reason they are involvedSomeones name attached to your project is not the one reason that's going to push your songs to the next level. You need a great production and a team willing to help achieve that. Sometimes artists get blinded by the though of having someones name attached to their project, they miss out that it may not actually be the best thing for their project, and they often overlook far better options that will get them further in the long run. Someones name can help, but often it's their connections and endorsement. If you pay for someones ego...2021-10-2033 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThere are no rules in music production and creativity, find your own processMusic Production, audio engineering, mixing, songwriting, basically any form of musical creativity has NO RULES and no Step by Step Processes that are set in stone. Yes, there are guidelines, and there and step by step instructions for certain processes to get you going in a general direction or a general sound, but they are fluid, always changing and meant to be bent and broken. When you push the limits of what you're told, that is when you find new things, and that's how you develop your unique sound and your own process! --- ...2021-10-1326 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsImportance of embracing your authentic sound as an artist or producerVideo Version! - https://youtu.be/jegDxzFevf4 To be successful, and allow yourself to thrive and have a long career (or hobby) you need to embrace your authentic sound as an artist, engineer or producer. If you think your sound is to strange and no one will like it, you're wrong. Don't try and water down your creations to please others, make what you like, and people will be attracted to that. Along with that, follow your gut instinct, even when trying something new, you can still just know if you enjoy it. If you...2021-10-0632 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsMy top picks for studio gear, within the arbitrary rules - The "My Forever Studio" PodcastThere's a podcast I really enjoy listening to which is the "My Forever Studio" by MusicTech. If you haven't heard of it before, it's worth a listen and there's some really interesting discussions about gear choice and workflow due to gear choice as well. Basically, the guest has to pick their gear for their "forever studio" where budget is no limit, but they only have a set number of items they can pick and thus, choices need to be made. So today, to celebrate 60 episodes, and because I thought it would be fun, I did...2021-09-2937 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsBe aware of social media education, don't let it ruining your creativityThese days, social media is such a large part in how we get our information. Likewise when learning thing, we like to follow social media accounts who's posts are relevant to what we enjoy, such as making music. The problem is that most fundamental educational concepts and social media educators (if you can call them that) don't really take into account the whole of many concepts. In this podcast I talk about how social media might be ruining peoples creativity, how to tell and actual expert from a keyboard warrior in facebook groups, and why you need...2021-09-2232 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsGibson is Entering the Record Business, is this a new era of labels?Gibson (yes, the 127 year old guitar manufacturer) recently announced they will be entering the record label business. Along with this announcement, they also said that the first record they will be releasing will be with Slash (GNR) in 2022. Gibson Records (which operates out of Nashville) is also a partnership between Gibson and BMI. So, is this good or bad for the music business and artist? According the statements from Slash & his manager, they were really excited about the deal saying that Gibson is focused on making this record label artist focused and in this deal...2021-09-1536 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsNot all "BREAKS" are created equally | How to take breaks that actually refresh your creativity and avoid burnoutI'm back! I had a little bit of a break after the last episode, and today I explain why, and what I was up to, along with the takeaway lessons to help yourself maximize your energy and prolong your creative energy and avoid burnout. It's important to find an activity and things that help refresh you that you can do BEFORE you burn out. Not all "breaks" are created equal, and in this episode I talk about what works for me and give some times to help you find what works for you. --- Send in...2021-09-0831 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsDealing with burnout, and avoiding it before it happensBurnout is a real thing, and I feel like it his creatives hard. Because we love what we do, we sometimes don't notice the signs before it's too late. This week I talk about my experiences, how I notice I'm reaching a point I need a break to avoid real hardcore burnout, and how to deal with it if it's happening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2021-07-2844 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsMaking Great Impressions - Breaking into the music industry w. Jay Riehl [PART 2]This is Part 2 of my chat with Jay Riehl about breaking into the industry, the networking and personal aspect of getting your foot in the door and climbing up the ladder to where you want to go. The biggest keys to the importance of making a good first impression, being a good hang and someone people want to be around, and showing your passion and drive to be learning and soaking up knowledge while not getting cocky. Even as technology changes and the world becomes more vast then ever, the way to break into the...2021-07-2136 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsBreaking into the music industry (as a producer, engineer or musician) w. Jay Riehl [PART 1]This week we have an co-hosted episode with Jay Riehl! This is part 1 of a 2 part episode, because we ended up talking for a long time.. So tune in next episode for the conclusion to the chat! We discuss about getting started in the industry, the networking aspect and the personal aspect of getting your foot in the door and climbing up the ladder to where you want to go. The biggest keys to the importance of making a good first impression, being a good hang and someone people want to be around, and showing y...2021-07-1451 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsMusic Credits - How taking too much credit can hurt you long term, give credit where credit is due!In today's music creation economy, the biggest currency to help producer, engineers and even artists, is credit. The ability to prove the work you have worked on, and getting acknowledged for the work you've done, can go a really long way for your career and your relationships. Likewise, messing that up, over crediting yourself or not giving credit where credit is due, can be detrimental. We're all in this together, so let's act like it! Here's where we can start, while we try and push other reforms for music credits as well *Cough, Spotify..* --- Send...2021-07-0731 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsCreative Journey, and building up confidence to release your music | Releasing my new single YOUThis weeks episode I talk about my creative journey in gearing up to release my first single in a long time, YOU. This song has been part of a big transition in my life, and I talk about what it took to convince myself to release it, how releasing covers helped with that, and how some things to think about if you feel like you are in this same situation! I talked previously about my struggle with my creativity in recent months in Episode 32 - I lost my creativity | The journey of getting my creativity back, what...2021-06-3025 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsImportant Tips to LEARN and SUCCEED in the Music IndustryIn this episode, I talk about some of the tips of I've learned to help engineers, producers and anyone else, learn and succeed in the music industry. This started with a question I got from someone looking to get their foot in the door with an internship at a large studio. In answering that question, I realized many of the tips apply to anyone wanting to learn and build themselves up in this industry. So I thought I'd share some of the tips I have learned and taught others before. As always, continue the conversation with me...2021-06-2329 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsWhat actually constitutes as a "Live Video" anymore? Is it diluting real talent? w. Malcolm CottleThis week we have our first co-hosted episode on the ANAK Creates Podcast!! I'm joined by Malcolm Cottle, who will be joining me for a monthly show (approx, but no guarantees) where we get to sit down and chat about various things! This week, we're discussing the trend of "live videos" on youtube, videos that are branded as "live" yet are clearly not really live, what we think about that, what that means for artists, and what we think actually deserves to be called "live". Very interesting discussion, with some very different opinions! Please, let u...2021-06-161h 11

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsMy new song release, Apple event spacial audio initial thoughts!This week's podcast is a little update video and some thoughts on some new updates! First, my new cover song My Head My Heart by Ava Max that just came out, Addict by Ellocin Daz, which I produced the track and made the video. Then we talk about my thoughts on the new Spacial Audio feature from apple announced at WWDC, and my thoughts of what that means moving forward! LINKS My Head My Heart Cover - https://youtu.be/6Zl_GIxa71g Gorillaback Productions...2021-06-0921 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsGetting started with a home recording setup w. Ryan TuerIn this week's episode, I'm joined by my friend Ryan Tuer from SG Studios and Scary Gnome Productions. We talk about Ryans journey in music, the process of building SG Studios, and then we talk about some practical tips for home recording musicians and aspiring engineers and producers looking to create a creative space for music recording in their home. What you need to get started, how it doesn't have to cost a ton of money, and where to go from there to create something in your home to get started and have decent sound, no matter what your...2021-06-0244 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsListener Q&A! - My approach to layering and harmonies, and why I share my knowledge!This week's episode is a Listener Q & A! I love being able to answer your questions, so keep them coming! Shoot me an email over on anakcreates.ca or on Twitter or Instagram @anakcreates, as I will be doing more of these! This week's questions are: - Why did you choose Pro Tools? Why do you stick with it? - What was one of your favourite sessions you've ever done? - Why do you share your knowledge like you do? - I was watching your track breakdown from your Shawn Mendes cover...2021-05-2628 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe importance of SPACE in your productionsDuring a recent episode with Jay Riehl, I asked him about his one piece of advice for up and coming engineers and producers to help with their productions. While we only briefly touched on it, I thought it was a great piece of advice and wanted to dive deeper and share some more of my own thoughts about what he meant and what we talked about. I discuss the importance of leaving space, not only in the actual writing of the song and the parts you create, but then also in the layering and recording to create...2021-05-1916 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsStreaming is NOT an enemy, it's an opportunityMany people hate on music streaming, claiming it has ruined the music industry. I discuss how streaming saved already declining record sales and gave artists much more opportunity than ever before, if you view it the right way and embrace the reach and marketing that it gives you. Making a career is more possible than ever, it's just all about how you think about it. LINKS: EP 44 - anakcreates.ca/updates/ep44 Apple is paying 1cent a stream - https://9to5mac.com/2021/04/16/apple-music-says-it-pays-one-cent-per-stream-roughly-twice-what-spotify-pays/ EP 04 - Major Record Labels are...2021-05-1230 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsWhat does a post-record label music industry look like?Over the last few years, the major labels have been slowly loosing a bit of their grip. Due to their power, they are still able to put certain narratives out there that people believe, but in reality, they are not necessary for small artists, as many still believe. In this episode I talk about why this is the case, and what has enabled small artists to move past the idea that major labels are the only way to make a career in music. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates...2021-05-0524 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsMy views on Editing, Drum Samples, Programming and how to find your sound w. Malcolm CottleThis week we have a fun episode with our regular guest Malcolm Cottle, but instead of him being the guest, he did a full on takeover of the podcast, where he flipped it around and interviewed me! We talk about my approach to drum samples, the ethics of drum editing & editing in general, my thoughts on drum programming, sample augmentation and sample replacement. We go into how I few the creation of records as a form of art and editing is an extension of that, We wrap up with some practical advice for those getting...2021-04-281h 11

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsHow accountability can improve and inspire your music creation processThis week, we're diving deeper into something that we talked about with Malcolm Cottle back in Episode 37. While making is latest record, Malcolm tried a new tactic of getting a producer to help keep him on track. Even if you aren't hiring a producer, getting someone to help hold you accountable to your project, your goals and even just offer a 3rd party perspective to help you know what's right while making your decisions, is so important, and that's what I dive into in this episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show...2021-04-2114 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsLearn your tools, before expanding your toolboxI really believe that to become a better creator, and really allow yourself to express what you want through your craft, you need to understand and know the tools you have at your disposal to create what you want. In this weeks episode I talk about the importance of learning your tools, which in the case of music is your DAW, your plugins, your instrument. Starting from stock plugins, and building your toolbox up from there. This insight has been talked about and shared in pervious episodes as well, because it's the most important thing...2021-04-1425 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe song is king, technology won’t save youOne of the most important parts of the production process, starts at the very beginning. The song. No amount of technology is going to save you if the song isn't great. If no one is tapping their foot, if no one can hum along or feel emotionally attached in some way, then no amount of great gear is going to make that song better. This is a deeper dive into this topic which we touched on in one of the latest episodes with Jay Riehl, EP 39 - How recording technology has changed and...2021-04-0722 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsHow recording technology has changed and evolved the mentality of using it w. Jay RiehlJay Riehl was one of my first real mentors in the music space. Along with his business partner Ryan Tuer, took me under their wing at The Swamp studio back in the day, when I was just getting into high school. For years they taught me and I ended up engineering session for them before I went away to OIART (which was highly recommended by both of them). Over the years, we have stayed the closest of friends despite the age differences, still doing projects and hanging together. Like the brothers I didn't have. In...2021-03-311h 15

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsIs speaker/room correction software any good? Who is it for?With the growing demand for home studios, there's the problem of needing to make a less-then-ideally treated rooms sound good and translate well. This is one of the things that Sonarworks is aimed towards, which is a pioneer in speaker calibration software. Based on their recent announcement of the new SoundID Reference Software announcement, I wanted to talk about the whole concept of this "speaker calibration" or "room calibration" software, my thoughts, who and when it's worth getting and when it's not. Spoiler, I think it has it's place, but it's not for everyone. --- Send i...2021-03-2419 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe creative workflow that helped for a remotely made record w. Malcolm CottleWhile 2020 was difficult, creators adapted to use the tools they could to create things remotely, and it actually opened up some amazing new technology and workflows, as well as access to the whole world of collaborators! This week, I sat down (virtually, again) to chat with Malcolm Cottle about the newest Sons of Horus release that just came out on March 15th! This EP (the Revolution EP) was created almost purely over the internet (including mixed by myself), with many different feature guests on it (myself included) produced and created across borders. We chat about how that...2021-03-171h 06

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsHow learning self recording helps the modern musician w. Emmett O'ReillyThis week I am talking with Emmett O'Reilly, who is an old friend of mine and we've been making music together for years. Emmett is a part of a number of bands, including his own personal project, the Toronto punk band Pkew Pkew Pkew, and Stuck Out Here, as well as Owen Wilson and many more. Due to the recent pandemic, Emmett has crossed over the other side of music making. With the lack of live shows and performances, he dived headfirst into home recording and growing his skills with production and engineering. This podcast we talk...2021-03-1058 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsStaying on top of your studio business w. Brady Hoggard of Sonido SoftwareThe music business is changing, and for studios and freelancers, we need to change with it. The tools we use and approaches to building out businesses needs to grow as well, and today's guest is right on the for-front of that. Brady Hoggard is the founder of Sonido Software, which is a project management software system built specifically for recording studios (of all sizes) and freelance producers and engineers. It puts all the different tools someone needs to grow their business into one platform that just works together, instead of trying to cobble together a multitude of...2021-03-031h 00

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsHow to be comfortable to create your best, but still pushing your limits!It's important too be comfortable in order to create your best. If you're in a studio where you don't want to touch anything, is to fancy, or where you are strapped for time, that is not a good position to be in when it comes to being your most creative self. In this episode I talk about how make sure your comfortable, but still seek discomfort in other ways to create your best. I also give some examples of some things other artists have done to bring comfort into the studio with them to show you anything...2021-02-2422 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsHow home recorded drums can sound great! A look behind the recording of TNHMB w. Malcolm CottleI'm joined by Malcolm Cottle, an avid home recording hobbiest, who has been developing his skills for many years. He is a drummer who has perfected techniques for recording himself (and his drums) in his home studio, which is nothing fancy but yet he can make it really work. We dive into how he records himself, how he got the drum sounds for the There's Nothing Holding Me Back cover that we just released, and how we did this project despite being in different countries. He even gives a great starting advice and gear suggestions for people...2021-02-1751 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsI lost my creativity | The journey of getting my creativity back, what happened and what saved itIt's so important to take care of yourself and take time for yourself, outside of work or your creativity. This will drastically help your creativity and avoid you from becoming burnt out. In today's Podcast I talk about taking time for yourself, and also share my journey through some really hard times for me creatively, and how the new cover song I just released help me get through that. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2021-02-1015 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe importance of experimentation in the studio, not getting suck in step by stepIt’s so important for new (and established) producers and engineers to never get to stuck in their ways. Experimentation is the key to success and continually developing your sound. These days there are 2 different sides of this. A lot of online education about production and mixing is very exact, telling you the steps that you must follow. On the flip side, we have never had more tools at our disposal, no matter what level of production you’re at. Step by step is not how it should be done, creativity needs to be fluid and experimentation is so...2021-02-0318 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThank You 2020!As 2020 comes to a close (one of the craziest years in my life time) I feel like it’s only fitting to have a more personal episode, where I just talk a little about my key takeaways from the past year, what I liked, what was great about this year and what I’m looking forward to next year. I do some positive reflection and encourage you to do the same. While this was a crazy year, there are also some changes that have happened for the better, even if it feels like a roundabout way to get there. This mark...2020-12-2613 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsPractice, the key to successful creativityThis week's podcast is inspired by a book I am currently reading called "The Practice - Shipping Creative Work" by Seth Godin. I wanted to explore the thought's I had while reading this and how they directly relate to audio engineering, mixing and music creation. I break the simple steps down into a formula for creators or those who want to be creators, on how to actually create. So many people call themselves creatives but don't consistently create anything. It's all about the practice, showing up, and there's no place to be making excuses about waiting for...2020-12-1617 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe big company push into Podcasts, but is it good for music artists?This week's episode I wanted to explore the push and investment in podcasting which both Spotify and Apple Music are doing. The competition that Spotify has started by investing Millions into podcasting is great, but I wanted to explore how this will effect their core music streaming service and it's artists. What is good, what is bad and what do I wish they would do for artists. While I do think that broadening their market and branching out into podcasting is good for them as a business, I am concerned about if they will leave music behind, or if...2020-12-0925 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe experimental Spotify Story feature - They need to stay true to themselvesSpotify is a company I enjoy watching grow and develop new things. I don't always agree with them with what they do, however, they are continually innovating in their space. This episode I'm talking about their new "story" feature, which is currently in a testing period, but I wanted to touch on my thoughts of the good and bad route this feature could take, and where I think they need to go with this idea. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2020-12-0227 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsIs the music funding system broken? Does it still do what it was designed for?There are a million sides to every story, but the latest controversy about Grimes getting funding from FACTOR, while having an already successful career and not even living in Canada has sparked some questions. This isn't meant to bash her or her management company, as there are many sides to everything and it's impossible to know, however it's more about my thoughts about how it looks from the outside and what may be happening in the new landscape of government subsidized grants and funding. Full disclosure, I love Grimes and I think she's amazing, this is only...2020-11-2524 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsInspiration vs Infringement [Part 2] - Why is music being treated so differently?In Episode 8, I discussed the lawsuits that were happening in the music industry, how ridiculous they are, and how there's such a blurry line between being inspired and ripping someone off. This week, I share my thoughts on how the music industry seems to be the only one treated like this, and other creative fields seem to be able to literally use parts of other people's creative work and not only get away with it but it has become the norm. I discuss this in regards to TikTok and YouTube creators, and how I think there needs...2020-11-1823 min

The Productive CreatorEP 20 - 1 month here, and ideas for my YouTube channelIt's been 4 weeks doing this podcast, episode 20! I also talk about my ideas for expanding my videos on my channel.2020-11-1208 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsWhy the new Spotify boosting algorithm feature could be the death of streaming as we know itSpotify has announced a new experimental feature to allow artists and labels to boost songs in their algorithm's suggestions. While this sounds great, it comes at a cost, which is a lower royalty rate for those who opt in to using this. While all the details aren't announced yet, I go through my thoughts based on what we do know and how this could be terrible for artists all around, and giving more money and power to the big companies and even the labels. Let me know your perspective on this, how you feel about i...2020-11-1122 min

The Productive CreatorEP 19 - Apple Silicon and new YouTube show ideaIt was a productive day today mixing and a new AC Podcast, and also an apple event!2020-11-1106 min

The Productive CreatorEP 18 - Why there's no videoThis week I didn't put out a video, which would have been out today. Here's why, and a little bit about what's happening and my feeling that prevented me from putting something out. Know your own feelings.2020-11-1007 min

The Productive CreatorEP 17 - I need a relaxing weekend to regenerateSometimes ya work yourself up into an uncreative zone. Time to relax and let it go, next week will be great.2020-11-0606 min

The Productive CreatorEP 16 - Treat others how you want to be treatedKarma will come back to you. Treat others how you would want to be treated.2020-11-0607 min

The Productive CreatorEP 15 - The concept of Morning PagesThe concept of morning pages, something that really helps me, and worth looking into! From an interview between Marie Forleo.2020-11-0507 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsWhen does inspiration turn into copyright infringement?Over the last number of years, the amount of lawsuits involving copyright infringement in songs has been steadily rising. It seems like everyone who can see any kind of similarity in a song wants to get as much money as they can. Where is the line that turns something from being considered "inspired by" or "in a similar genre of music" into a legal copyright infringement and constitutes lawsuit action? In this episode we talk about this, and below are some links for some videos I find inspiring when it came to the topic of the Katy...2020-11-0423 min

The Productive CreatorEP 14 - Don't let restrictions become hindering excusesLetting slight restrictions or stupid excuses become the reason you don't more forward with your projects, is not good. Don't let that happen. This is what I did and how it helped a friend of mine.2020-11-0407 min

The Productive CreatorEP 13 - I've been "bribing" myself to work outHave you read Atomic Habits? You should. That's something that helped me start working out regularly recently.2020-11-0309 min

The Productive CreatorEP 12 - Ear Troubles - Remember that Tomorrow will be betterI have been missing a couple days because I was having problems with my ear and was forced to take a day off because of it. But, always remember that tomorrow will be better if you focus on that and make it a reality!2020-10-3108 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsHow to manage multiple ongoing projects - It can be good for your creativity and productivity, not bad.In this week's episode of the podcast, I discuss how I manage multiple projects on the go, and how so many things at the same time actually helps me thrive and impacts my creativity in the best way possible. We talk about how to re-frame your mind from getting overwhelmed to letting it actually help you accomplish so much more. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2020-10-2820 min

The Productive CreatorEP 11 - Micro DistractionsToday I explain why and how I use movies and shows as "micro distractions" while editing, to keep me more on task.2020-10-2807 min

The Productive CreatorEP 10 - Project and Todo List ManagmentIt really helps me to make my day todo list the night before. This is nothing new, but I needed a reminder, and I think others do too!2020-10-2711 min

The Productive CreatorEP 9 - Tornado Warning - Don't worry about what you can't controlI got stuck in a tornado warning area, and had to wait it out. A valuable lesson for anyone about not worrying about what you can't control and just rolling with the punches.2020-10-2411 min

The Productive CreatorEP 8 - Stop caring what other people think of you creative outletIn inspiration from listening to Bring Me The Horizon, a rock/metal band that has been known for blurring the lines of genres, the best way to be your most authentic self, be creatively fulfilled, and have the best chance of real success your happy about, you need to stop caring and just create for yourself.2020-10-2310 min

The Productive CreatorEP 7 - Being IndistractableToday I look at the Book Indistractable by Nir Eyal, which I recently finished reading and have gotten a lot of value from by actually following what's recommended in the book, no matter how silly it sounded.2020-10-2213 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsIs home recording a viable to make professional records? How does this help our creativity?Can you really make hit quality music from your bedroom? Is it that much more economical? How do they influence your creativity? In this episode I wanted to discuss home recording, as home studio production and recording has it reached new heights with technology getting so much better. There are huge projects that are recorded in home studios, or small studios. We all have access to much of the same technology, and it's so much more accessible, This is opening up a whole new aspect of creativity for people, being able to create wherever the...2020-10-2126 min

The Productive CreatorEP 6 - Complete the process and learn from itWhen working on a project or a creation, go through the whole process, complete all the steps so that you can better reflect, and learn more about each step along the way and how it effects your thinking.2020-10-2113 min

The Productive CreatorEP 5 - Setting Creative Restrictions to be creative and productiveToday I talk about how setting creative restrictions on yourself can sometimes be a great way to develop new skills and get to know your tools better. That, and how restrictions can often help you be more productive if you use them correctly!2020-10-2009 min

The Productive CreatorEP 4 - What do you have to looseWhen you aren't sure what to do, step back and think "What do I have to loose and what do I have to gain" - It's better to move forward in some direction, then no direction at all.2020-10-1712 min

The Productive CreatorEP 3 - The half-hour rule to help you get out of a rutSomething I like to call the Half-Hour Rule, and how it helps me shake off an unmotivated day.2020-10-1608 min

The Productive CreatorEP 2 - Take time for yourselfThe importance of taking time for yourself, remembering what your values are, and not getting burnt out.2020-10-1511 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsAuthenticity - How far will the Joe Rogan censorship go, and what does it mean?In light of the latest Joe Rogan censorship, I wanted to talk about what's happening and discuss the importance of being authentic with your creativity. The importance of authenticity and where it impacts creators can sometimes been overseen, and taken over for "business" slowly until it's no longer true to the artist. This is important for both creators as well as the executives and the business aspect of creating. Nothing is more important than staying true to yourself, your fans, and your natural development as a creator. It may hinder short term, but it will allow for...2020-10-1426 min

The Productive CreatorEP 1 - My Goals with this PodcastToday I talk about my goals with this podcast. To help improve my podcasting skills, seeing where it goes and how it develops. Come enjoy the journey with me!2020-10-1414 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsSeeing the importance of multiple income streams as a freelancer and an artistWith what's going on in the world right now, it's really showing us the importance of having multiple income streams and different ways that we can generate income with our skills. Freelancers, being able to work on different kinds of projects, since (as we'll discuss) work won't come back all at once and evenly since the whole "supply chain" of creativity has been interrupted. As artists, its important to rely on more then just live events, the importance of developing connections with your fans (no matter what size audience you have) to allow them to...2020-05-2744 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsFreelancing and Networking in Creative Industries with Malcolm Cottle of Deny The Threat & Gorillaback ProductionsThe first Episode with a guest! I am so excited! This week I am joined by my old friend Malcolm Cottle. Malcolm owns Gorillaback Productions, is the drummer from Deny The Threat, and has an upcoming musical project Sons Of Horus. In this episode we sit down to talk about our journey together, freelancing and networking in the creative industry (both video, photography and music) how we have always helped each other grow and learn through the years. We also discuss the Deny The Threat project, how it came about, and why we still all love working...2020-05-201h 15

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe future of the Creative Industry after Lockdown and new opportunities!Something we all have to remember is, the arts (movies, music, podcasts, books, youtube creators, etc) helped us all get through these crazy times. But how is this whole thing going to affect creative industries? With filming productions shut down & postponed, how does that look for the chain of people down the line from the actual filming? For smaller creators, how does this effect them, and what doors does this actually open for new opportunities! In this weeks episode, I talk about this, and how freelancers can be prepared for these changes in work to...2020-05-1343 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsStaying Creative in these crazy times! - Tips to help get around creative blockWelcome to Season 2 of the ANAK Creates Podcast! Finally, after a bit of a break, I'm back. In this episode, I address what's going on in the world, and how to help yourself stay creative even if you're in lockdown or less than ideal creative situations. I go through ideas to help you spark some creative energy, like Collaborating Remotely, Scheduling Your Time, Making Covers or copying things to learn, and also just to make sure you go out of your way to learn new things! Enjoy season 2, and be sure to submit a question...2020-05-0643 min

Welcome with Karim KanjiAlex Krotz | Welcome To The MusicThe following episode is from the Welcome to The Music Podcast. Alex Krotz is a freelance music producer, audio engineer and mixer. He has worked with artists such as Barenaked Ladies, Arkells, Billy Talent and The Tragically Hip. Alex now spends his time in Vancouver and Toronto.2020-03-1055 min

Welcome To The MusicAlex KrotzAlex Krotz is a freelance music producer, audio engineer and mixer. He has worked with artists such as Barenaked Ladies, Arkells, Billy Talent and The Tragically Hip. Alex now spends his time in Vancouver and Toronto. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-03-0955 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsHow to spark your creativity and motivation, why I started a personal blog!When being creative with your art, or even working on building your business, building your website, or writing social media posts, we all fall into times of being creatively uninspired and feeling like we have fun out of ideas. The biggest problem can sometimes be trying to force something to much, which often has the opposite effect and hinders that creative flow. This week I talk about 3 ways I often use to help when I feel like I hit a creative wall. One of those is my personal blog "iamanak.ca" and how this helps me with...2019-09-0227 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsDo you overthink when creating? How to recognize overthinking and tips to get around it!Overthinking the tiny details of your art can hinder your creative output. This episode we talk about how to recognize when you are overthinking, how it's hurting your art in ways that you hadn't even thought of. I then have 6 tips to help you stop overthinking, and avoid falling into that trap, and ultimately help you create your best work! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-08-2626 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsWhy in-person networking is so important!Networking with people in your field (and outside your field) is so important, and this week we talk about why, how it strengthens connections, and opens up opportunities. I give you some insight into networking in general, and some tips to help you build your network up to be as strong as possible. In-person networking is something I feel people don't realize how important it is, and especially with the internet, it's even more important than ever. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-08-1927 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsDon't let the fear of failure stop you, embrace your authentic creativity!We discuss why the fear of failure has no place in creativity, trying to copy others is hindering your personal style. In this week we discuss why that fear stops you from creating your best art, and why that fear will be it's own downfall. You need to be true to yourself to be your most successful self, and be happy no matter what happens! Comparing yourself to what's popular has hits place, but it's not during the creative process. We discuss how to help get around that to let your creativity flow as naturally as possible.2019-08-1221 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsBecome more in-tune with your craft by branching out!Branching out within your creative field, as well as outside of your creative field can have a valuable impact on your career, both in opportunities and inspiration. This week we discuss the importance of branching out, talking to different creative people and getting out to try different creative crafts. I look at how that can impact your craft in ways you may not even realize, and can help make you even more valuable in your field. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-08-0522 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsWorking For Free - Why you should, and how to take advantage of it!The never ending debate about working for free. I think most people have the wrong mentality about free work or unpaid internships, and in this episode I want to talk about why I think it's great, and how to make sure you're using it to your advantage. If you approach free work the right way, and the right opportunities, it can really boost your career and help you gain priceless knowledge and experience, especially in our creative fields. Most people think about free work in the wrong way, as someone taking advantage of them, but you have...2019-07-2918 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with Creators5 Tips to make your emails professional and why it's important!Writing professional emails and communicating properly between clients or any business associates is an important skill to have, that so many people realize is so important or simply don't remember to maintain. In this episode I give 5 tips for to improve your emailing and digital communication etiquette. Stick around for a bonus tip on how to really get in peoples good books. You can also download a PDF with these tips to follow along with at anakcreate.ca --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-07-2223 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with Creators6 Tips to optimize your social media presence, and how to use it properly!Social media can be one of our biggest weaknesses and waste so much of our time. However, it can also be one of our most powerful assets for that exact reason. Facebook itself is one of the biggest website on the internet with over 2 billion monthly active users, meaning that your audience has a good chance of being on there and is probably accessible! If you play your cards right, and make a good first impression, you can find great opportunity in front of so many people. We discuss 2 main part of this in this episode, 6 things...2019-07-1523 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsAlways be pushing yourself - learning from Jony Ive leaving AppleJony Ive recently announced his departure from Apple. He Apple's lead designer, and one of the top designers in the world, having shifted the tech industry as we know it with his designs. In this episode we look at what we can learn from this bold move and how it can inspire us to never get trapped or feel unmotivated by the things we do, and how it's okay to make changes to be as fulfilled and satisfied as possible in our lives. It's not always about the end goal, but the enjoying the whole journey and p...2019-07-0820 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe biggest 'secrets' in music creation that you need to know!Do you really know how music is made, or how much editing is in modern music? Do you know long editing has been in music? Hint, its far before computers! In this episode we explore some studio tricks and techniques that no one talks about! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-07-0123 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsThe greatest key to success is to know how to never stop learningWhen you stop learning, your creative journey is done. In this episode I talk about things I see all the time that people do that hinder their learning, and tips to help you learn and grow in your craft. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-06-2421 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsMajor Record Labels are fading - but what is replacing them affects everyone!In this episode, building from what I have been talking about, I discuss major record labels, what mistakes they are making that are no good for new age artists. I then turn and look at what record labels of the future look like and where it is going to take the whole industry! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-06-1720 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsEP 03 - Spotify vs Netflix: what Spotify can learn from its video streaming equivalentThe differences and similarities between two industry leading content streaming companies and their respective industries. We look at how Spotify can learn from the video streaming giant, and what it can apply to it's own business model while help the music industry and creators. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-06-1018 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsEP 02 - Is streaming killing the music industry?Streaming Platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, are they hurting the music industry or helping? How can artists and listeners adapt to the changing business model. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-06-1019 min

ANAK Creates Podcast | Coffee with CreatorsEP 01 - Who Is ANAK? The journey that lead me to start ANAK CreatesWelcome to the ANAK Creates Podcast! This is the introductory Episode to hear more about my story, and what lead me to start ANAK Creates. I will also tell you a bit about what you can expect from this podcast moving forward! Thank your for joining me and check out ANAKcreates.ca for more info on everything related to the ANAK Creates brand, because there is so much more! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakcreates/message 2019-05-3014 min