Episode 441 - Art and Creativity in the Age of AI with Guoying Yang
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
Release Date: 09/09/2025
Episode 441 - Art and Creativity in the Age of AI with Guoying Yang
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John is joined by Guoying Yang, an interdisciplinary researcher and voice teacher, whose work focuses on the intersection of neuroscience, artificial intelligent, art education, and special education. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is changing art, teaching, and human creativity, and why artists may benefit from engaging with this new tool rather than avoiding it. Episode highlights: AI is not just a trend but a new tool in human history, like fire and computers. While AI can eventually help diagnose voice issues and...
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Episode - 440 - Embracing Cognitive Dissonance
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John talks about the value of holding opposing ideas in singing and teaching without rushing to resolve them. He explains how cognitive dissonance, though uncomfortable, can open doors to discovery, growth, and new perspectives on the voice. Embracing it helps us find deeper truths and a more personal path in music. Episode highlights: Holding space for seemingly conflicting ideas can lead to breakthroughs in singing and teaching. Discomfort in the learning process often signals that growth and discovery are happening. Openness to multiple...
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Episode 439 - The Brain’s Singing Sweet Spot
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John digs into the idea of criticality, the brain’s “sweet spot” for learning, creativity, and performance. He explains how singers can get stuck in either too much control or too much chaos, and why the real magic happens right in between. Find that balance so your singing feels easier, freer, and more fun. Episode highlights: Great singing happens in the balance between control and freedom. Stress, lack of sleep, and overthinking can pull you out of your brain’s sweet spot. Short, focused practice sessions and even mental rehearsal...
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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...
info_outlineIn this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John is joined by Guoying Yang, an interdisciplinary researcher and voice teacher, whose work focuses on the intersection of neuroscience, artificial intelligent, art education, and special education. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is changing art, teaching, and human creativity, and why artists may benefit from engaging with this new tool rather than avoiding it.
Episode highlights:
- AI is not just a trend but a new tool in human history, like fire and computers.
- While AI can eventually help diagnose voice issues and assist with learning, it cannot replace human creativity, motivation, and connection.
- Embracing imperfection and authentic expression is what makes human art irreplaceable in an AI-driven world.
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