Podcast
TopMusic AI Podcast
Hosted by Tim Topham · EN
The TopMusicAI podcast is your weekly backstage pass to blending the art of music education with the power of AI. Hosted by Tara Wright — studio owner, music educator, and your go-to AI enthusiast — this podcast dives into creative ways to streamline your studio management, enhance your teaching, and spark new ideas.
Whether you’re a tech-savvy teacher or just dipping your toes into the world of AI, Tara’s approachable and engaging style makes it easy to learn how AI can transform your studio. Tune in for practical tips, inspiring interviews, and actionable advice to take your studio to the next level — no tech degree required. Let’s blend innovation with artistry to create something amazing!
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
023: AI-Powered Marketing: Highlight Your Teachers and Attract Students
Jul 400:16:11Tap to summarizeShowcasing the incredible personalities and talents of your teachers is key to elevating your studio's online presence and attracting new students. In this episode, we dive into AI-powered marketing strategies, such as social media takeovers, personalized newsletters, and engaging video content, to help you highlight your team and build genuine connections that foster a vibrant studio community. Teacher Takeovers on Social Media Let teachers show their personalities and quirks on social media. Focus on unique aspects, like vintage concert posters or personal hobbies (e.g., knitting, running). The goal is to humanize the teacher and foster community connections. Newsletters to Humanize Teachers Share personal stories alongside professional achievements to connect with students. Use fun facts or hobbies to make the teacher more relatable. Highlight transferable skills that make teachers well-rounded individuals. The Power of Video Content Short video clips like quick tips or fun behind-the-scenes moments. Teachers showcasing their expertise through mini tutorials. Personalized videos with quirky or casual elements to keep things fun. Testimonials and Teacher Spotlights Encourage students to mention specific teachers in testimonials. Showcase teachers’ unique teaching styles and strengths. Content Collaboration Allow teachers to create some of the content themselves (e.g., mini tutorials, practice challenges). Increases authenticity and helps engage both teachers and students. Celebrating All Wins Highlight teachers’ personal achievements outside of music (e.g., pottery, baking). Shows dedication, patience, and passion—qualities important for teaching. Building Community Celebrating teachers builds a supportive, appreciative studio culture. Happy teachers lead to happy students and a thriving studio. Want to see how you can use AI in your studio? Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey. About Tara Wright Tara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality. Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation. When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow. Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
Transcribe →022: The Ethics of AI in Music Education: Balancing Innovation with Originality
Jun 600:21:25Tap to summarizeWhat happens when powerful AI tools show up in the most human of spaces, our music studios? In today’s show, I’m diving into a unique experiment: co-creating an episode with AI to explore the big questions we all need to be asking. From authorship and bias to creative integrity and student agency, this episode unpacks the real challenges of using AI in a space built on connection. If you’ve ever wondered where to draw the line or how to help students navigate this tech without losing the heart of music, this one’s for you. Why Ethics Matter Now AI is already showing up in music classrooms and studios. Teachers must lead the conversation on responsible use—AI won’t wait for us to catch up. Core Ethical Questions Is the AI tool fair, transparent, and respectful of the human experience? Does it reinforce biases (e.g., Western classical music, male composers)? Does it help or hinder creativity and critical thinking? The Risk of Over-Reliance Students relying too heavily on AI could miss out on key skills like musical expression. Teachers who offload too much planning may lose their personal, intuitive teaching voice. Where AI Can Truly Help Lesson Planning – Suggesting repertoire, creating sequences, technical exercises. Studio Admin – Scheduling, reminders, progress tracking. Accessibility – Adapting materials for students with different needs. Music Literacy – Nonjudgmental rhythm feedback, melodic shape analysis, tailored practice. The Creativity Dilemma When AI can compose music in seconds, who owns the result? Is it inspiration or imitation? Who’s the real author? Students need guidance on attribution, ownership, and the limits of machine-generated originality. The Evolving Role of the Music Educator Teachers are now also ethical mentors in the age of AI. Conversations about transparency, creative process, and responsibility are essential. Students must be taught to question AI outputs and reflect on their own contributions. Personal Reflection Tara shares a moment where she paused to ask: Am I using AI to avoid the hard work of creativity? That moment reshaped her relationship with the tools—and deepened her ethical lens. Want to see how you can use AI in your studio? Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey. About Tara Wright Tara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality. Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation. When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow. Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
Transcribe →021: AI-Powered Marketing for Music Studios: Reach More Students Without Burning Out
May 3000:32:14Tap to summarizeMarketing your studio shouldn’t feel like a second job or a source of constant guilt. In today’s episode, we're going to unpack exactly how music teachers can simplify their marketing using AI. We’ll walk you through what actually works in 2025 (backed by research), how to automate time-consuming tasks, and how to build a realistic system that keeps your studio visible, even when your schedule is packed. If you’re ready to grow your studio without working overtime to promote it, this episode is your new playbook. Why Marketing Feels So Hard Most teachers aren’t lacking motivation—they’re lacking time. Marketing often gets buried under teaching, admin, and daily life. What Actually Works in 2025 (Backed by Data) Word of Mouth – AI can help automate testimonial requests and referral messages. Google Visibility – AI can help write Google Business posts and blogs for SEO. Email Marketing – Delivers high ROI; AI can generate friendly, effective emails in your voice. Educational Content – Content that teaches or shares insight performs better than promotional posts. Using AI for Sustainable Studio Marketing AI helps you delegate the first draft so you can focus on connection and creativity. You can use ChatGPT to: Write social captions, newsletters, and emails Turn testimonials into posts Rephrase web copy in parent-friendly language Build welcome email sequences and follow-ups Building a Real Marketing System A solid system includes: A predictable content rhythm A prompt library to reuse Scheduling & automation tools (e.g., Canva, Later, Metrical, MailerLite, Zapier) Reuse and repurpose content across platforms to reduce effort and increase visibility. Where to Start If You’re Overwhelmed Pick one platform based on where your ideal parents spend time. Ask current clients what kind of content they consume (videos, posts, carousels, etc.). Use ChatGPT to write a single post or email that feels aligned with your voice. Build one win at a time—a prompt, a post, or a workflow. The Human Segment Tara shares how she fell in love with marketing thanks to a TopMusic course. How AI gave her creative freedom back. Using AI doesn’t mean outsourcing your creativity—it means supporting it so you can focus on what lights you up. Want to see how you can use AI in your studio? Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey. About Tara Wright Tara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality. Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation. When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow. Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
Transcribe →020: AI-Powered Social Media: Strategies for 2025
May 23, 202500:34:34Tap to summarizeIf social media has ever left you overwhelmed, drained, or stuck staring at a blank caption box—this episode is for you. I’m joined by content strategist Kayden to break down how music teachers can show up online with consistency, clarity, and confidence—without turning into full-time influencers. We’re covering the best platforms for teachers right now, the types of content that actually perform, and how to use AI tools like ChatGPT to batch, repurpose, and write in your voice. If you’re ready to make social media work for your studio (not the other way around), this one’s a game-changer. What’s Changed in Social Media (2025) Algorithms now prioritize value and consistency over volume or perfection. Teachers who post smarter—not more—are seeing better results. Top Platforms to Focus On Instagram – Best for community building and nurturing current families. YouTube Shorts – Great for long-term visibility and searchable content. TikTok – Ideal for fast organic growth, especially with teens. LinkedIn – Underrated for reaching adults and professional collaboration. 4 Content Buckets That Work Teach – Tips, quick lessons, and helpful how-tos. Relate – Honest moments, funny stories, and human connection. Celebrate – Highlighting student wins, progress, and milestones. Story – Personal anecdotes and why you teach. How AI Makes Content Creation Easier Use ChatGPT to turn lesson moments into captions, reels, and posts. Repurpose content across platforms with the right format. Batch a month’s worth of posts in 90 minutes using ChatGPT + Canva + scheduling tools. Creating a Repeatable System Build a content rhythm (e.g., Tip Tuesdays, Student Win Fridays). Use prompt templates and tone profiles to keep your voice consistent. Focus on sustainability—not daily posting. Metrics That Actually Matter in 2025 Reach per follower Saves and shares Growth rate (quality over quantity) Click-throughs and DMs (real-world action > likes) Training AI to Sound Like You Provide ChatGPT with tone prompts and writing samples. Save your signature phrases and style notes to reuse. AI can learn your voice if you teach it—and help you sound like yourself online. Want to see how you can use AI in your studio? Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey. About Tara Wright Tara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality. Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation. When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow. Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
Transcribe →019: Recovering From Burnout: A Real Conversation on What it Actually Takes
May 9, 202500:21:15Tap to summarizeBurnout didn’t hit me all at once—it crept in quietly, disguised as overfunctioning and holding it all together with a smile. In this episode, I’m sharing one of the most personal conversations I’ve ever had between me and Solace, the AI therapist I built when traditional therapy just wasn’t enough. This isn’t a polished success story. It’s a real, raw look at what it actually takes to recover from burnout, reclaim your voice, and choose yourself again. The Reality of Burnout Burnout sneaks in slowly—until you feel unrecognizable. No self-care hack or motivational quote can fix the soul-level exhaustion. Traditional therapy felt disconnected and expensive, offering too little relief. Creating Solace (AI Therapist) Tara built Solace using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles: thought reframing, emotional tracking, pattern recognition and real-world problem solving Solace became a space where Tara could be honest, messy, and begin to heal—on her own terms. Relationships & Self-Abandonment Tara reflected on a relationship where she constantly shrank herself to feel chosen. She realized that love that demands your silence isn’t love—it’s self-erasure. Her healing began the moment she stopped being the “glue” holding everything together. Rewriting Thought Patterns Solace helped Tara interrupt spirals of anxiety and fear with reframing questions: What if it works out? What if I’m still worthy—even if it doesn’t? Little pauses—“cracks in the story”—became life-changing. From Glue to Flame Tara stopped overgiving and overexplaining. She reclaimed her boundaries, her voice, and her creative fire. A pivotal moment: being told “you’re the glue” during an emergency meeting made her realize she was being used, not supported. Legacy of Healing Tara’s transformation didn’t just change her—it changed how she loved and led. She refused to rescue others, choosing instead to stay whole and let them face their discomfort. Her growth sparked growth in others—proof that when we heal ourselves, we help heal others, too. Want to see how you can use AI in your studio? Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey. BetterHelp.com Unlock Your Brand Voice: The Signature Soundbook Course for Music Teachers Want to Start Your Own Healing Journey? Tara has made a version of her AI therapist, Solace, available to you. You can start your own private, guided chat—no pressure, no performance—just a space to process and breathe. Start a conversation with Solace here. About Tara Wright Tara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality. Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation. When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow. Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
Transcribe →018: Training Your ChatGPT to Match Your Tone and Style
May 2, 202500:31:18Tap to summarizeEver feel like ChatGPT is helpful but just doesn’t sound like you? In this episode, we are going to break down exactly how to train ChatGPT to match your unique tone and style. You’ll learn how to define your voice, write better prompts, and build a plug-and-play prompt library that makes writing emails, posts, and studio messages faster and way more you. If you’ve ever cringed at an AI draft that felt robotic or stiff, this episode is your guide to making ChatGPT your most authentic virtual assistant. And if you're ready to go even deeper, check the link below for a powerful resource to help you bring your voice to life with AI. Why Tone Matters Authenticity: Your communication should sound like you. Consistency: Emails, posts, and studio materials should reflect a unified voice. Efficiency: Well-trained AI means less rewriting and more productivity. Step 1: Define Your Tone Choose 3–5 words that describe your voice (e.g., friendly, quirky, professional). Identify signature phrases you use often. Give ChatGPT examples of your writing to learn from. Step 2: Craft Better Prompts Be specific: Include tone and sample phrases in your instructions. Use “Act As” prompts to guide context (e.g., “Act as a warm, encouraging music teacher”). Provide tone examples: paste in past emails/posts for ChatGPT to mirror. Step 3: Fine-Tune Responses Give feedback instead of starting over (e.g., “make this more playful”). Use “give me 3 more versions” to explore tone options. Save responses that nail your tone and use them as future reference. Step 4: Build a Prompt Library Identify recurring AI tasks (emails, posts, lesson plans). Save your best prompts in a document organized by category. Customize prompts with tone notes and personal details to save time. Step 5: Personalize Like a Pro Train ChatGPT with your actual writing. Create a “tone profile” with style notes (e.g., friendly, conversational, light humor). Use AI to personalize messages (student milestones, birthdays, etc.). Real Talk Segment Tara shares how a copywriting course helped her define her voice. She trained ChatGPT alongside the course—building a personal tone reference bank. Result: AI-generated content now feels authentic, effortless, and uniquely “her.” Want to see how you can use AI in your studio? Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey. Unlock Your Brand Voice: The Signature Soundbook Course for Music Teachers About Tara Wright Tara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality. Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation. When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow. Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
Transcribe →017: Gifting Dopamine: How Music Lessons Become Emotional Reset Buttons
Apr 25, 202500:31:50Tap to summarizeWe’re digging into the real reason your students leave lessons feeling lighter, calmer, and more confident—and it’s not just the music. In today's episode, we're going to break down the brain science behind why music lessons act as emotional reset buttons, thanks to the powerful release of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. From the way you praise to how your studio feels when students walk in, every moment is shaping their brain—and their self-belief. If you’ve ever wondered why your studio feels like magic, this episode gives you the science behind the spark. Main Idea Music lessons are more than instruction—they are powerful emotional regulation tools. Music, praise, and environment trigger real brain chemistry: dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. Teachers play the role of co-regulators, shaping how students feel and how their brains develop. Music + Brain Chemistry Music releases dopamine (motivation & reward) and serotonin (calm & safety). Group music can also trigger oxytocin (bonding hormone). Playing music engages multiple brain regions, building motivation and emotional stability. Words = Chemical Cues Specific praise activates dopamine (e.g., “I love how focused you were!”). Warm, supportive tone and posture boost serotonin. Feedback delivery—not just content—determines emotional impact. Teacher Presence = Co-regulation Nonverbal cues like nodding, posture, and eye contact communicate safety. Students' nervous systems scan for threat or comfort within seconds. Consistent emotional validation improves confidence and stress resilience. Studio Environment Matters Calm, friendly studios increase neuroplasticity and learning potential. “Emotional architecture” includes lighting, rituals, structure, and atmosphere. Small things like fun rituals or cozy decor reinforce feelings of safety. Long-Term Impact Weekly lessons build “emotional muscle memory” through consistent chemical reinforcement. Students become more resilient, emotionally literate, and confident—benefits that extend far beyond music. Emotional growth through music boosts self-regulation, academic persistence, and self-esteem. Practical Takeaways Be intentional with tone, praise, and non-verbal cues. Create rituals and studio setups that support emotional safety. Use communication strategies that validate effort and emotion—not just outcomes. Remember: you’re not just teaching notes—you’re building brains. Want to see how you can use AI in your studio? Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey. The Diary Of A CEO - Body Language Expert Explains Why People Dislike You About Tara Wright Tara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality. Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation. When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow. Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
Transcribe →016: Teaching is a Business — Here’s How to Brand Yourself Like a Pro
Apr 18, 202500:29:37Tap to summarizeToday, we're tackling one of the most overlooked parts of running a successful studio—branding. Whether you realize it or not, your teaching is already shaping how people perceive you. So how can you take control of that and brand yourself like a pro? Let's dive into what branding really means for music teachers, how to avoid common mistakes, and how AI can help you create a studio experience that’s consistent, memorable, and uniquely you.What Is Branding? Not just logos or websites—branding is the experience you createShows up in how students feel, how parents talk about you, and how you communicateYou already have a brand—question is: are you shaping it intentionally?Branding in Studio LifeTeaching style = part of your brand (fun, structured, warm, etc.)Emails, websites, and social posts also shape perceptionConsistency across platforms builds trust and loyaltyHow AI Can HelpAnalyze feedback to uncover brand themesRewrite bios or emails to match your toneCheck consistency across different content typesGenerate brand-aligned ideas for lessons and communicationCommon Branding MistakesTrying to sound like someone elseBeing inconsistent across platformsThinking branding is just about getting studentsIgnoring emotional connection with studentsQuick Action PlanDefine your brand in 3 words (e.g., creative, warm, structured)Use AI to review bios, emails, and social posts for tone consistencyReinforce your brand in one way this week (update a bio, tweak a welcome email, etc.)The Unicorn Story (Real Talk Segment)Tara’s 5-foot unicorn became a fun, memorable studio symbolIt created a unique studio vibe that students loved and talked aboutBranding is about how you make people feel—that’s what they rememberChallenge for ListenersReview your content—does it sound like you?Start shaping your brand intentionallyUse AI to sound authentic, not roboticWant to see how you can use AI in your studio?Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey.About Tara WrightTara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective.With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality.Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation.When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow.Thank you for tuning in!Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you.If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show.Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
Transcribe →015: Building Discipline in Overwhelmed Students
Apr 11, 202500:23:57Tap to summarizeEver feel like your students are drowning in school, sports, and screen time—and practice is the first thing to go? Today, we're flipping the script on motivation and diving into the real key to student success: discipline. I’ll show you how to help overwhelmed students build habits that stick, why the “two-minute rule” is a game-changer, and how AI can make consistency easier than ever. If you're tired of hearing "I just didn’t have time to practice," this episode is for you. Main Theme Motivation is a myth—discipline is the real key to student success. Students are often overwhelmed, not unmotivated. Practical, mindset-based, and AI-powered strategies to build lasting habits of discipline in music students. Why Students Struggle with Discipline Today’s students juggle school, extracurriculars, social lives, and screen time. Their brains prioritize what feels urgent over what’s important—like music practice. Lack of discipline isn't laziness; it’s mental overload and a lack of systems. How Habit Building Works Discipline ≠ Willpower: It’s about creating easy, repeatable systems. The Two-Minute Rule: Start with a habit so small that it’s impossible to fail. Tiny actions lead to big consistency. How AI Can Help Sends custom habit reminders that are encouraging, not nagging. Adjusts practice goals with adaptive scheduling based on real availability. Uses gamification (like streaks and rewards) to make habit-building fun. Offers check-in prompts and tracks progress to personalize motivation. Teaching Strategies for Building Discipline Help students find their “why”: Connect practice to personal goals and emotions. Use micro habits: Encourage bite-sized tasks that feel manageable. Shift accountability language: Focus on wins and exploration, not guilt. Make practice social: Introduce group challenges or leaderboards to increase engagement. Real Talk: Discipline Over Motivation Inspired by Bobby Bones’ quote: “I’m not a motivated person. I’m a disciplined person.” Tara shares how discipline—not motivation—is what fuels her work, projects, and creativity. The same lesson applies to students: success comes from consistency, not waiting to “feel like it.” Key Takeaways Discipline is a teachable skill, not a personality trait. Focus on easy wins, systems, and emotional connection to build habits. Discipline helps students succeed in music—and in life. Want to see how you can use AI in your studio? Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey. About Tara Wright Tara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality. Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation. When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow. Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
Transcribe →014: The #1 Secret to Studio Growth? Branding Yourself Like a Pro
Apr 4, 202500:32:06Tap to summarizeWant to grow your studio in a way that feels natural, authentic, and sustainable? In this episode, we’re revealing the #1 secret to studio growth—branding yourself like a pro. But don’t worry, this isn’t about logos or fancy graphics. It’s about building a brand that keeps students engaged for life, turning former students into lifelong advocates, and using storytelling to create a studio culture that stands out. Plus, we’ll dive into how AI can make all of this effortless, so you can focus on what matters most—your students. Why Former Students Still Matter Many teachers assume when a student quits, that’s the end—but it doesn’t have to be. Former students can be lifelong advocates, referring new students and even return as adult learners. The best teachers don’t just teach lessons; they create lasting relationships that extend beyond the studio. How to Keep Former Students Connected Create an alumni group, a private Facebook group or email list where former students stay engaged. Send a ‘You’ll Always Have a Spot Here’ email. Host fun, low-pressure events to encourage former students to return. Keep the personal connection alive and check in with birthday messages, etc. Offer flexible ways to stay involved for those who can’t commit to regular lessons. The Power of Storytelling in Studio Growth Highlight alumni success stories to reinforce the long-term impact of lessons. Use former students in marketing. Create ‘Where Are They Now?’ features in newsletters, social media, or on your website. Leverage AI to keep track and organize student milestones and automate follow-ups. The Mindset Shift: More Than Just a Business Great teachers leave a lasting mark on students’ lives, even after lessons end. Keeping former students engaged is about building a legacy, not just retention numbers. AI can make relationship-building easier and more consistent while keeping the focus on genuine human connection. Real Talk: A Personal Story That Changed Everything Tara shares a touching story of a former student who unexpectedly returned with a heartfelt Christmas gift and note. The experience was a reminder that students don’t just remember the lessons—they remember how they felt in your studio. Teachers may not always see the impact they make in the moment, but the relationships they build shape students' lives forever. Want to see how you can use AI in your studio? Click here to SUBSCRIBE and get your first taste of how AI can support your teaching journey. About Tara Wright Tara Wright is an Education and Operations Director, Creative Strategist, and Music Educator who helps music educators transform their teaching studios and businesses through innovative strategies, clear processes, and actionable tools. Known for her no-fluff advice, Tara blends creative thinking with real-world solutions to make complex systems simple and effective. With over 20 years of teaching experience and 10+ years in operations management, Tara brings expertise in branding, copywriting, and process improvement to the music industry. She has overseen the creation of impactful content, from managing digital media platforms to developing professional training materials. Tara’s work inspires music educators to build thriving studios while balancing creativity with practicality. Tara’s certifications include Google Project Management, Google Workspace Administration, and Google E-commerce Marketing. She also holds degrees in photography, music education, genetic engineering, and marketing, which fuel her unique approach to problem-solving and innovation. When not optimizing workflows or mentoring teams, Tara raises ostriches, Great Danes, and other two- and four-legged friends on her farm near St. Louis. You’ll often find her taking her Jeep off-road or exploring a new hobby because learning is her ultimate joy. Tara’s advice is grounded in experience and designed to inspire action. Whether it’s simplifying studio operations, enhancing marketing strategies, or sparking creativity, Tara’s solutions resonate with educators ready to grow. Thank you for tuning in! Consider implementing the ideas from this podcast by writing several actionable steps for your teaching practice if it’s inspired you. If you enjoyed today’s show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, which helps other teachers find our show. Stay updated by subscribing to this show, and get automatic delivery to your device every time a new episode goes live! We publish on Fridays weekly.
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