Tapasya Loading, is a safe space to attempt honest, raw and authentic conversation in homage to the ancient act of stoking a sacred fire. Hosted by Musician/Inter-diciplinary artist T.L.Mazumdar, it pays proverbial homage to the ancient act of burning fear away with love and joy by inviting raw and authentic conversations and exchanges with fellow artists and path-breakers.
This episode wasn't meant for an audience. No script, no mic check, no “audience in mind.” Just a raw Zoom session between me and my weekly business accountability partner Chris Prestia, founder of the Well-Practiced Musician—one artist/educator to another, pulling back the curtain on what it really means to build a creative life that's sustainable, soul-aligned, and functional. From emotional burnout to business bottlenecks, doubts around business partners and platforms to choose with, and the friction between art and commerce—this is an unfiltered window into the backstage of the Holistic Musician Academy and my own journey as an independent musician. We talk about the things that don't usually make it into polished podcasts or curated newsletters. Things like identity, masculinity, and the quiet pressure of always having to “perform.” The creeping role of AI in creative work. And whether building an artistic career part-time is a compromise or a legitimate survival strategy. I also speak candidly about the personal: My obsession with location independence and how it connects to childhood trauma. The complexity of familial ties. And how Rocco helped me finally face a decision I've been circling for over three years. If you've ever wondered what the real conversations sound like behind the coaching, the music, the launches—this is it. Warning: This episode contains unpolished language, vulnerable moments, and a whole lot of truth. Any tools, services, or platforms mentioned in this episode are shared solely based on personal experience. We are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or officially endorsing any brands or companies discussed. Find out more about Chris Prestia Free Training Self-Study Course. Group Coaching 1 on 1 Mentorship Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post below: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/musicians-and-martyr-syndrome Free Training Self-Study Course. Group Coaching 1 on 1 Mentorship Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com
Read the blog post below: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/macro-vs-micro Free Training Self-Study Course. Group Coaching 1 on 1 Mentorship Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com
Read the blog post below: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/macro-vs-micro Get my Free Training. Waiting list for Group Coaching Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com
Read the blog post below: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/what-is-peoplepleasing Get my Free Training. Waiting list for Group Coaching Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com
Read the blog post below: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/artists-and-imposter-syndrome Get my Free Training. Waiting list for Group Coaching Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com
Read the blog post below: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/information-diet Get on the waiting list for my artist mastermind https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist Get my Free Training. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
What does it take to sustain both a marriage and a creative partnership—without one overshadowing the other? In this long-awaited conversation, we sit down with returning guests Kiran Ahluwalia & Rez Abbasi, a powerhouse couple who have built extraordinary solo careers while seamlessly collaborating as partners in both life and music. From navigating creative differences to maintaining individuality within a shared artistic vision, Kiran and Rez open up about the complexities of working side by side in an industry that often blurs the line between personal and professional. We explore how they challenge traditions, support each other's artistic evolution, and continue to create a sound that is both deeply personal and globally resonant. We also dive into the challenges of navigating social media as artists—how they balance authenticity with the pressures of visibility, and the impact it has on their creative process and well-being. Additionally, we discuss the risks artists take in pursuit of their craft. Kiran shares her experience of suffering a major accident while filming a music video, highlighting the dedication and sacrifices that often go unseen in an artist's journey. About Our Guests: Kiran Ahluwalia is a two-time Juno Award-winning vocalist known for her contemporary take on the great vocal traditions of India and Pakistan. With roots in Sufi, Qawwali, Ghazal, and Punjabi folk, she masterfully weaves influences from Mali, rock, R&B, and jazz into a sound that defies boundaries. Leading a dynamic 6-piece ensemble, she crafts music that is at once reflective, groovy, and deeply human—what the Seattle Times calls “a transnational sound as fresh as tomorrow.” Rez Abbasi is a Guggenheim Fellowship-winning guitarist and composer, widely regarded as one of the most original voices in modern jazz. Voted #1 Rising-Star Guitarist in the DownBeat Critics Poll, he has been ranked alongside greats like Bill Frisell and Pat Metheny. Born in Karachi, Pakistan, raised in Southern California, and deeply influenced by jazz, classical, and Indian music, Rez creates a sonic landscape that is as intellectually profound as it is emotionally stirring. Together, Kiran and Rez embody the beauty and challenge of being hyphenated global artists—shaping their own artistic identities while constantly inspiring each other. Tune in for a heartfelt, insightful discussion on love, music, and the delicate dance of sustaining both. (Want more? The full, unedited version of this conversation—including behind-the-scenes moments—is available exclusively to our members. Membership is free! Sign up here to get access). Connect with Rez Abbasi: Website: www.reztone.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rez-Abbasi-71229228740 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reztone/ Connect with Kiran : www.KiranMusic.com Facebook YouTube Instagram Spotify
Morning routines are everywhere—CEOs, athletes, and high performers swear by them. But musicians? Not so much. In this special guest solocast, Ryan Hurst of GMB Fitness shares his personal morning routine and the mindset behind it. Originally recorded when he was living in Osaka, this episode was previously only available to my private community. Now, I'm bringing it to the podcast because I believe these insights are just as valuable for musicians and creatives as they are for athletes and trainers. Ryan takes a grounded, holistic approach to training—his routine is about more than just movement; it's about setting the right tone for the day, staying consistent, and cultivating the right mindset. I've personally had a morning routine for over 10 years, and I can tell you—it's a game-changer, especially when you're constantly on the move. While I'm currently on tour, I've noticed how having even a loose framework helps me stay focused and energized despite time zones, deadlines, and performances. This episode isn't just about fitness—it's about how structure and routine can help you show up better in whatever you do. Links & Resources:
Read the blog post below: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/artistry-vs-craftsmanship Get on the waiting list for my artist mastermind https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist Get my Free Training. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com
Read the blog post here. Get on the waiting list for my artist mastermind https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist Get my Free Training. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post here. Get on the waiting list for my artist mastermind https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist Get my Free Training. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post here. Get on the waiting list for my artist mastermind https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist Get my Free Training. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post here. Get on the waiting list for my artist mastermind https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist Get my Free Training. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/what-is-critical-thinking Get on the waiting list for my artist mastermind https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist
NYC-based Hungarian drummer Ferenc Nemeth is a Grammy-award-winning musician and educator who continues to push the boundaries of jazz drumming, composition and education with his unique approach of self-development and artistry. Nemeth has been one of the most sought after drummers both, in Europe and the United States with a lineage from a musical family, lending him a unique dynamism and versatility fostered from a very early age. From his early days at the Berklee College of Music in Boston and the Thelonius Monk Insitute of Jazz in Los Angeles, Nemeth has learned from and worked with the world's finest jazz musicians and groups including Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Terence Blanchard, Kenny Werner, the Billy Childs Trio, Bob Sheppard, Dave Carpenter, John Clayton, Jimmy Heath, The Henry Mancini Orchestra amongst others. An ever-present thirst for exploration and experimentation has seen Nemeth travel widely and play with musicians from a stunning variety of backgrounds and countries. This occupation in turn, has also resulted in Nemeth's regular participation in workshops and teaching programs around the world. We catch up in this informal chat after our artist residency at the Bimbache openART Festival to unpack some serious themes revolving around the challenges musicians face today in an ever-growing and confusing industry that threatens the authentic growth and integrity of artists at various phases of their careers with a strong focus on goals, personality development, and intentionality. Watch the extended, unedited taping session here (includes additional footage and transcripts).
Read the blog post: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/artists-and-perfectionism Free Workshop: http://www.artistmindmap.com/ My self-paced artist-development course: https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/ciar Waiting list for my artist mastermind & group coaching: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/limiting-beliefs Free Workshop: http://www.artistmindmap.com/ My self-paced artist-development course: https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/ciar Waiting list for my artist mastermind & group coaching: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist
Read the blog post: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/blog/social-auditing Free Workshop at: http://www.artistmindmap.com/ My self-paced artist-development course: https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/ciar Waiting list for my artist mastermind & group coaching: https://www.holisticmusicianacademy.com/communitywaitinglist
Details on tapasyaloading.com/charles-sz Watch the extended, unedited taping session here (includes additional footage and transcripts).
Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A masterclass to help prevent burnout and nurture a sustainable career for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post here: https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/blog/content-vs-art Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for in
Read the Blog Post below. https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/blog/ambiguity-vs-noncommitment Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post on https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/blog/musicians-vs-audience Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post here: https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/blog/self-development
All details on https://www.tapasyaloading.com/kavall Get free access to the complete episode, additional footage with transcripts, and exclusive content HERE. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians.
Read The Blog Post here. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Read the blog post here. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com
Read The Blog Post here. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com
Episode Details on https://www.tapasyaloading.com/johannes-stange Get free access to the complete episode, additional footage with transcripts, and exclusive content HERE.
Read the blog post below. https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/blog/setting-boundaries Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com
Episode details on: www.tapasyaloading.com/shruti-ramani Get free access to the complete episode, additional footage with transcripts, and exclusive content HERE.
Read the blog post below. https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/blog/why-what-how-framework Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text: www.tlwrites.com
Episode details on: www.tapasyaloading.com/rebecca-mardal Listen to complete episode HERE.
Read the blog post here: https://www.holisticpianoacademy.com/blog/what-is-negative-bias Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com Read the blog post here: https://www.tapasyaloading.com/blog/what-is-toxic-pedagogy/ Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com Read the blog post here: https://www.tapasyaloading.com/blog/sensitivity-vs-fragility/ Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com Read the blog post here: https://www.tapasyaloading.com/blog/sensitivity-vs-fragility/ Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com
Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes / Text : www.tlwrites.com Read the blog post here: https://www.tapasyaloading.com/blog/internalizing-our-haters/
Thoughts on the 4-year anniversary of Tapasya Loading. Download my FREE 'Artist Mindmap'. A one-page mini-masterclass for independent musicians. www.holisticmusicianacademy.com Music and Audio Production: www.everynowheremusic.com Episode Notes : www.tlwrites.com
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