208 Get Unstuck: Make Decisions with Confidence
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
Feeling stuck in your musical career? In this episode, we’re tackling how to make clear, confident decisions that move you forward. We’ll look at why we avoid making choices, how to break through the fear, and simple strategies to pick the path that’s right for you. I’ll share real examples musicians face every day—from auditions to career changes—to help you make decisions that bring you closer to the life you want. Mind Over Finger Click to book your free consultation with me. Visit for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance....
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207 Zlatomir Fung: Flow, Fundamentals, and Fearless Performance
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
In this episode, I sit down with cellist Zlatomir Fung to explore the art of practice, mental resilience, and building a sustainable life in music. We discuss: The importance of mastering fundamentals and balancing them with complex repertoire How to achieve flow state on stage through curiosity and deliberate preparation Strategies for managing intrusive thoughts and staying grounded in high-pressure moments Insights into creating a fulfilling, purpose-driven career in music Tune in to gain practical tips and inspiration from Zlatomir’s journey. Are you ready to take...
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206 Life Changing Thoughts: Four Powerful Sentences That Changed My Life
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
In this episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast, I share four pivotal sentences that completely shifted my perspective, challenging deeply held beliefs and unlocking new levels of growth and creativity. These insights helped me overcome limiting beliefs and embrace life’s complexities. If you’re interested in exploring how powerful thoughts can create meaningful change in both personal and professional spheres, this episode is for you. Mind Over Finger Click to book your free consultation with me. Visit for my online courses as well as free resources on peak...
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205 Sasha Romero: From Texas to the Met – Chat on Mastery, Mindfulness, and Advocacy
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
In this inspiring episode, trombonist Sasha Romero, principal trombone of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, shares her incredible musical journey from Texas to the Met. Sasha talks about her early musical memories, the challenges she faced along the way, and the importance of mindful practice. She opens up about managing ADHD, balancing work with life as a performer and educator, and her unique approach to audition preparation. Sasha also shares her advocacy for the transgender community and offers practical advice on how we can all be better allies. This episode is full of valuable insights...
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204 The One Feeling to Shape Your Success
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
In this episode, we dive into a key feeling that can help you break free from autopilot mode and approach your goals with intention. I discuss: Why many of us fall into routine and how to shift away from it How this feeling drives purposeful action and long-term success Real-life examples from Olympians, musicians, and entrepreneurs who use this mindset to achieve their goals Practical steps you can take to cultivate this feeling and apply it to your personal and professional growth Listen now and discover how this simple shift can have a profound impact on your year. ...
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203 Molly Gebrian: Learn Faster, Perform Better
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Molly Gebrian, who has just released her new book, Learn Faster, Perform Better: A Musician’s Guide to the Neuroscience of Practicing. We discuss: The science of learning and memory in music practice and performance The role of errors in learning Internal vs. external focus in performance The power of mental practice and personalized routines The benefits of using a timer and recording device in practice The importance of taking breaks Tune in for insights that can transform your practice and performance! Are you ready to take your...
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202 Lara St. John: Creating Change: Ensuring Safety & Equity in Classical Music
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
A particularly important episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast with guest Lara St. John where we discuss the context and impact of sexual abuse, the lack of representation, and how women often don't get the support they need. Lara shares her own experiences and she stresses the need for institutions to step up and create a safe space for everyone by being transparent, and having clear steps to handle sexual harassment and assault. Finally, we touch on the power dynamics and gender issues in the classical music world and the difficulty of addressing these issues in a society that...
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201 Why You're Stuck & How to Break Free
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
Want to escape Stuckville? Unsure how to move forward? Having trouble making decisions? This episode is for you! In this episode, I tackle the reasons why we often feel stuck and share strategies to get unstuck. We explore five core elements that keep us anchored in place: Lack of clear vision and goals Spiraling in regrets and fighting the present Fear of making decisions Worrying about judgment from others Perfectionism holding you back More importantly, I share actionable insights on how making decisions and taking steps can lead to clarity, personal growth, and fulfillment. Ready...
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200 Mastery, Mindfulness & Music
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
Curious about the mission behind Mind Over Finger? For this special 200th episode, my coach Jennifer Rosenfeld conducts a role reversal and interviews me! We discuss my journey from performer to coach and businesswoman, why I launched the podcast, and my ongoing mission as a content creator. Additionally, we cover: My perspectives on performance anxiety and finding joy in music through mindfulness The pursuit of creativity and mastery in music Personal growth, trauma, empathy, and support And much more Tune in now to gain inspiration from our conversation and explore your own path to...
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199 Rob Knopper: Audition Hacker
The Mind Over Finger Podcast
Conversation with Rob Knopper, percussionist with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and audition expert, creator of Audition Hacker. You’ll hear about how he painstakingly developed his process (through trials and errors, and lots of reflection), his method to prepare for an audition, and the specifics of how to record yourself for maximum results. MORE ABOUT ROB KNOPPER Website: YouTube channel: Facebook: Instagram: LinkedIn: Spotify: Mind Over Finger Click to book your free consultation with me. Visit for my online courses...
info_outlineEverything you need to plan for a stellar performance:
- Dive into the secrets of dream performance planning
- Uncover why we sometimes fall short of our best
- Explore the power of crystal-clear vision and how to get it
- How to organize your preparation process
Book your free consultation with Renée HERE
Download the transcript from this episode HERE
Mind Over Finger
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Thank You
Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme: Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.