Episode 438 - Overcoming Performance Anxiety with Lucie Burns
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode, John talks with Lucie Burns—author, musician, and performance coach—about the deeper emotional roots of performance anxiety. Lucie shares insights from her decades-long career helping singers connect authentically with their audience by shifting from fear to presence. This conversation offers practical tools for any performer looking to transform nerves into connection. Episode highlights: Performance is a skill that requires as much practice as singing itself. Constructive self-talk—before and after a performance—is essential for growth. True audience...
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Episode 437 - Developing Pitch Matching Skills
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John shares his personal journey with pitch-matching and explores how singers can improve this critical skill, even if they’ve struggled in the past. He explains how developing audiation, separating pitch-matching from the voice, and using the right tools can help singers bridge the gap between what they hear and what they sing. Episode highlights: Most people who struggle with pitch-matching are not tone deaf. They just need to strengthen the connection between brain and voice. Audiation—the ability to hear and hold pitch in your...
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Episode 436 - Being Wrong Can Still Be Right
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores why even inaccurate or oversimplified vocal concepts can still be helpful and meaningful in practice. He reflects on the balance between scientific accuracy and effective teaching, and encourages a more curious and compassionate approach to sharing ideas and learning. Episode highlights: Sharing imperfect ideas can still lead to real growth. Teachers and singers should ask, “What’s right about this?” before rushing to correct others. Vocal growth thrives in an environment of curiosity, humility, and shared experience. ...
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Episode 435 - Six Voice Teachers You Should Follow
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John shares six voice teachers who have deeply influenced his own work and are helping to shape the future of vocal education. From neuroscience to acoustics to body-based pedagogy, each teacher brings a unique and powerful perspective to the craft. Whether you're a singer or a teacher, this is a curated list of voices worth learning from. Episode highlights: These teachers are leaders in voice science, pedagogy, and practical application. Following a range of perspectives helps you stay curious, open-minded, and better equipped as a singer...
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Episode 434 - The Hidden Reasons Behind Vocal Issues with Tara Simon
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, acclaimed vocal coach and YouTube creator Tara Simon joins the conversation to explore the deeper causes behind common vocal struggles. She shares insights on misdiagnosed issues like pitchiness and vocal tension, emphasizing the role of acoustics, mindset, and technique. This episode is a powerful reminder that lasting vocal progress comes from targeted work and the right kind of support. Episode highlights: Many singers misdiagnose their vocal issues when the root cause is often mental, acoustic, or technical. Developing the right mental...
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Episode 433 - The Dip
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores the concept of The Dip, based on Seth Godin’s work, and how it applies to the journey of singers and performers. He explains the difference between a temporary challenge that leads to growth and a dead-end path—or “cul-de-sac”—that may require a change in direction. It’s a thoughtful look at perseverance, smart decision-making, and finding fulfillment in your musical path. Episode highlights: The dip is a natural part of any challenging pursuit, but it’s also where most people give up. Success often lies just...
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Episode 432 - Top Ten Changes in Vocal Education
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John reflects on how vocal education has evolved over the years since he began teaching. From the rise of voice science and virtual lessons to a deeper focus on mental health and student-centered teaching, he highlights the biggest shifts that have shaped how we teach and learn singing today. Whether you’re a singer or a teacher, this is a valuable look at where voice training is headed, and why staying curious matters. Episode highlights: Voice education is now more collaborative, inclusive, and student-focused than ever before. Science...
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Episode 431 - Seven Ways Aging Affects the Voice
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode, John shares his personal experience with age-related vocal challenges and outlines seven ways the voice changes over time. He explains how muscle loss, hormonal shifts, and neurological slowdowns can impact vocal performance, and what you can do to maintain vocal health and power. This episode is full of practical strategies for keeping your voice healthy, responsive, and ready to meet new challenges. Episode highlights: Regular, focused practice can counteract many changes you may encounter in your voice. Tools like SOVT exercises, breath resistance devices, and...
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Episode 430 - The Sometimes Vowels
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John dives into the power of the “sometimes vowels” Y and W—why they’re more than just grammar quirks and how they can help singers reduce tension and improve transitions. If you're working on mix, belt, or tricky vowels on tricky notes, these two letters may be your new best friends. Episode highlights: Y and W glides help reset tension and ease vocal transitions. These glides narrow vowels, making high notes easier to access without strain. Practicing with glides can dramatically improve vowel tuning and vocal efficiency. ...
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Episode 429 - Owning the Room
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores how singers can project presence and energy to truly "own the room" during a performance. He explains how outward focus, emotional intention, and energetic alignment create authentic connection with an audience. This isn't about perfection—it's about making the space vibrate with your presence. Episode highlights: Outward energy and emotional intention help you fully connect with an audience. Mirror neurons cause listeners to subconsciously reflect your emotional state—so presence matters. You don’t need big movements to...
info_outlineIn this episode, John unpacks the balance between effort and results, inspired by Adam Grant’s insights on the misconception that more work equals more success. He explores why strategy, feedback, and a growth mindset are just as crucial as practice, sharing tips like keeping a voice journal and seeking guidance to stay on the right track.
Episode highlights:
- Effort does not guarantee results in singing.
- Seek professional feedback to refine your approach.
- Regularly assess your efforts against your results.
To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com