Why do you care about songwriting as a craft and why do you care about building the TERRA Community? What does it all mean to you?

I grew up around music and songwriting - as an observer - and realized later in life that it's The Great Connector. We often run back to music (to create or exist) when we need comfort or therapy. A lot of my songwriting exists in the therapeutic space and, hopefully, welcomes others to connect with themselves in a meaningful way.
Growing the TERRA Community is central to my life’s purpose - to create spaces for people to feel inspired. Inspired to work, inspired to connect, inspired to take a chance - all of it. I’ve seen and experienced a lot of personal growth through the TERRA Community - it feels important to continue - so I do!

Have you had a mentor in the past? How do you think that affects your perspective as a mentor?

I've been lucky enough to encounter many great people in my life. I've found that when someone is a true professional, they hold their knowledge and experience very loosely - because they know it's not theirs to keep. I haven't had a formal mentor, but I've gleaned a lot of knowledge from people who I'd call Mentors.

What are you proud of in your songwriting and how can that help others build the same strengths?

I'm proud that I stay true to myself and don't waver too often about styles, etc. I write and produce in a certain way and have grown fond of my ability to find newness in that style. I'm also proud that I don't take the output too preciously. I gave up caring too deeply about a specific song a long time ago. Don't get me wrong, I care a lot about what I do, but I don't judge myself on any given piece of work. I'm confident I can share this perspective with others to build the same strength.

What do you think your standout skills are for mentoring?

Honestly, I think the biggest skill I have in mentoring is that I ask a lot of questions and am very patient in letting the response happen fully. It’s important to have a clear and complete answer to continue any explorative conversation, and I’ve spent many years having the awareness of this truth. I've also much of my life in a lot of different studio environments, and have built my own home studio where I write/record/produce/mix almost all of my own music. I can help steer a production if needed - with a keen sense of not overtaking the process. I have a robust knowledge of a lot of the administrative tasks that are required in releasing music, so I can help with that, too. I also excel in project management and accountability. I'm not afraid to push someone - as long as it's a shared goal.

What skills outside of songwriting would you like to share?

Production, (Logic Pro primarily), Recording techniques, Release administration, basic artwork skills (Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, Pixelmator Pro, etc)

How Much do you charge for an hour-long session?

$60