Flute 360

Flute 360 | Episode 316: A Flutist’s Guide to Authentic Branding - Winning Clients by Showing Up Authentically with Demitris Maddox In this value-packed episode, Demitris Maddox joins us to discuss how flutists and music educators can authentically present themselves online to attract the right students and clients. Demitris breaks down the art of connecting through email, website copy, and video content to create a magnetic presence that reflects your unique teaching style. Learn actionable tips to build genuine relationships and grow your studio by showing up authentically, both online and in-person. Whether you're a flutist navigating the competitive teaching market, or simply looking for ways to stand-out as an educator and entrepreneur, this conversation is overflowing with insights to help you thrive! Main Points: How to write authentic and engaging emails to open doors to new opportunities. The importance of balancing credentials with personality in your online presence. Why conversational website cop

Flute 360 | Episode 315: “Harmonizing Service and Music – Insights from Christian Lampkin’s Military Band Career” In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Christian Lampkin shares his incredible journey as a flutist and Airman in the United States Air Force Band. As a third-generation military service member, Christian’s story weaves together a rich heritage, personal growth, and the pursuit of excellence as a musician. Christian opens up about the unique experiences of military band life, how to balance personal artistry with service, and the profound role of mentorship in shaping his career. Whether you’re a flutist exploring a career in the military or seeking inspiration to align your purpose with your artistry, this conversation is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice. Main Points: The legacy of Christian’s military family and how it shaped his path as a musician. Life in the United States Air Force Band: blending artistry, community, and service. How military bands foster versatility in cham

Flute 360 | Episode 314: "Tyree Wilson on Lifting Up the Next Generation - Strength in Community" In this inspiring episode, Tyree Wilson shares his journey of building community and using social media to connect, collaborate, and inspire the next generation of flutists. From the importance of authenticity to navigating imposter syndrome, Tyree offers practical advice for creating a supportive and inclusive space both online and in the flute world. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone seeking fresh ideas, this conversation will leave you motivated to take action and make a difference. Main Points: The power of authenticity in building relationships and community. How to use social media as a tool for connection and collaboration. Overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing your unique journey. Practical strategies for inspiring the next generation of flutists. Resources: Dr. Diane Boyd Schultz’s Bio at The University of Alabama National Flute Association Carolyn Nussbaum’s Music Company Flut

Flute 360 | Episode 313: “Unboxing Life’s Lessons – From ASL to Flute and Back Again with Tyriibah Royal-Lampkins” In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay welcomes Tyriibah Royal-Lampkins, a certified ASL interpreter, DEI advocate, and flutist rediscovering her instrument after a 12-year hiatus. Tyriibah shares her inspiring journey back to the flute, reflecting on the parallels between interpreting, and music-making. The discussion delves into imposter syndrome, the emotional connection to one's craft, and the importance of separating self from work to foster growth. Tyriibah also offers actionable strategies for self-awareness and improvement, drawing from her expertise in the ASL field and her renewed passion for music. Main Points: Tyriibah’s unique path: From ASL interpretation to music, and how both crafts intertwine. Exploring imposter syndrome and the personal connection to creative work. Coping mechanisms: Separating self from art and reframing critique. Transition shock: Navigating c

Flute 360 | Episode 312: “When Podcasts Collide - A Fun Swap with Inline G’s Gareth Houston” In this lively and engaging episode, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay sits down with Gareth Houston of the Inline G podcast for a spirited podcast swap. Together, they dive into the overlaps and contrasts between their shows and careers, offering listeners unique insights into the power of podcasting as a creative and professional tool. Whether you’re a seasoned flutist or just dipping your toes into the flute world, this episode is packed with relatable stories, actionable advice, and plenty of laughs. Discover how podcasting can transform your artistic journey and why there’s room for every voice at the table! Main Points: Exploring the transformative power of podcasting for musicians. The importance of finding your unique voice and creating space for diverse perspectives in the music world. Overcoming fear and self-doubt in building creative platforms. The parallels between music-making and podcasting, including community buil

Flute 360 | Episode 311: “Beyond the Practice Room - Cultivating Community and Unique Voices with Dr. Daniel Velasco” In today’s episode, Dr. Heidi K. Begay introduces Dr. Daniel Velasco, providing a sneak peek into his teaching style and philosophy. Daniel shares his journey from performer to educator, highlighting his commitment to cultivating unique voices and fostering a supportive, empowering flute community. With a passion for guiding students in exploring their strengths and building their individual paths, Daniel discusses the importance of kindness, community, and balancing traditional and creative career opportunities in music. This episode is a taste of what’s to come in Daniel’s upcoming guest session for the Flute 360 Accelerator on November 30th! Main Points: Building a Musical Identity: Daniel emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between performance, teaching, and personal research to create a fulfilling career in music. Supportive Studio Environment: Creating a positive and encourag

Flute 360 | Episode 310: “Pushing Past Comfort - The Teacher’s Role in Growth” In today’s solo episode, I’m talking directly to you, the dedicated flute teacher who might sometimes wonder if you’re doing it “right” when a student resists your guidance. Teaching can feel challenging, especially when we encounter pushback. However, I want to remind you that it’s part of the growth process! Together, we’ll dive into why this discomfort can be a powerful sign of progress, both for you and your students. I’ll share a story from my own experience working with Dr. Garrett Hope, and what it taught me about handling student resistance with understanding and purpose. As teachers, we’re asking our students to stretch beyond their comfort zones, but it’s crucial we’re doing the same for ourselves. This episode also includes a personal invitation to join me for a Mastermind and Masterclass on November 30, 2024. We’ll address key topics like studio success, student growth, and teaching strategies that truly make an impact.

Flute 360 | Episode 309, Part 2: "Passing the Baton - Elevating Creativity and Financial Confidence for Artists with Dr. Iva Ugrčić" In Part 2 of this special two-part series, Dr. Iva Ugrčić dives deep into her journey as a financial coach for musicians and creative artists, focusing on her mission to help artists overcome the “starving artist” mentality. This episode is packed with practical advice, empowering strategies, and actionable steps to help musicians achieve financial health, cultivate abundance, and build thriving, sustainable careers. Dr. Iva also addresses a thought-provoking audience question, adding a personalized touch to her advice and reinforcing her belief that every artist deserves financial security and career satisfaction. Main Points: Killing the Starving Artist Mindset: Dr. Iva discusses common financial struggles artists face and provides a new mindset shift that can turn financial scarcity into stability and growth. Building Financial Health for Creatives: She breaks down essential

Flute 360 | Episode 308, Part 1: "Passing the Baton - Elevating Creativity and Financial Confidence for Artists with Dr. Iva Ugrčić" In Episode 308 of Flute 360, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay and Dr. Iva Ugrčić dive deep into the power of creativity and how trusting your natural abilities can elevate you as an artist. Dr. Ugrčić shares how we often overlook the talents that come naturally to us, and sometimes it takes a mentor or friend to point them out. This episode focuses on learning from each other, embracing collaboration, and recognizing your own strengths as a modern-day musician. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your creative path or doubted your skills, this conversation will inspire you to rediscover the gifts you already have. Dr. Ugrčić emphasizes the importance of trusting yourself and how the right community or coach can help you unlock your potential. Main Points: Trust Your Abilities: Dr. Ugrčić reminds us that often the things we’re naturally good at can go unnoticed. Sometimes it takes someone else

Flute 360 | Episode 307: "Own the Stage – Tools for Unleashing Your Musical Identity with Dr. Angela Beeching" In Episode 307, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay is joined by the brilliant Dr. Angela Beeching, who shares invaluable insights on how musicians can claim their space and own the stage with confidence. If you’ve ever struggled with stage presence or felt disconnected from your true artistic self, this episode will empower you to step into the spotlight like never before. Dr. Beeching provides practical tools to help you unleash your full musical identity, including an exclusive 8-minute stage presence prompt created especially for Flute 360 listeners! This is a rare treat you won’t find anywhere else. It’s the perfect tool to ground yourself before a performance and ensure you’re bringing your authentic self to the stage. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice to transform your stage presence. Main Points: Unleashing Your Musical Identity: Dr. Beec

Flute 360 | Episode 306: "Rooted in Music - Growing Where You’re Planted with Dr. Matthew Allison" In Episode 306, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay has an insightful conversation with Dr. Matthew Allison about the power of connection in music and helping students trust their interpretations. They discuss how students can thrive musically where they are planted and how lessons learned from teaching both children and adult amateurs can enrich both demographics. Dr. Allison highlights the importance of cross-pollinating teaching ideas and helping students bloom, no matter where they are in their journey. This episode touches on unique teaching methods and offers valuable insights into how music educators can foster deeper connections with their students. Main Points: Trusting Musical Interpretation: Dr. Allison shares tips on helping students trust their own interpretations of music, moving beyond the notes on the page. Growing Where You’re Planted: How musicians, especially students, can thrive and bloom where they are, ev

Flute 360 | Episode 305: "Note to Self - Unlocking Student Success & Connection with Adrian Gordon" In Episode 305, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay chats with Adrian Gordon, a violinist, music educator, and author of Note to Self. Together, they explore how educators can foster deeper connections with their students by humanizing the teacher-student relationship. Adrian shares unique strategies, like starting class with dad jokes to break the ice, that help students feel more comfortable and ready to engage. The conversation emphasizes the importance of meeting students where they are, showing empathy, and creating a space where students feel supported, seen, and heard. If you're an educator or musician, this episode offers valuable insights to strengthen the bonds between teacher and student, and enhance learning environments. Main Points: Building strong connections: Adrian explains the importance of bridging the gap between teachers and students by coming to their level and creating a welcoming environment. Human

Flute 360 | Episode 304: “Killing the Starving Artist Mentality - SEO Strategies for the Modern Flutist with Dr. Tonya Lawson” In Episode 304, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay chats with Dr. Tonya Lawson about breaking free from the "starving artist" mentality through strategic use of SEO (Search Engine Optimization). Tonya shares her journey from academia to becoming a multi-passionate entrepreneur, explaining how she built income streams through SEO, and how musicians can implement these strategies to grow their online presence. Whether you’re a musician looking to boost your website’s visibility or a creative wanting to monetize your work, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you thrive in today’s digital world. Main Points: Breaking the Starving Artist Mentality: Dr. Lawson explains how musicians can create multiple income streams by leveraging SEO and building a strong online presence. SEO Basics for Musicians: Learn what SEO is and why it’s essential for musicians and creatives looking to thrive in

Flute 360 | Episode 303: “Restart, Rebuild & Reclaim – Flourishing as a Musician Against the Odds with Dr. Sarah Weisbrod” In Episode 303, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay sits down with Dr. Sarah Weisbrod to discuss her remarkable journey of overcoming personal challenges and thriving as a musician and entrepreneur. Sarah shares her experiences of living with rheumatoid arthritis, balancing a career in software development, and returning to her musical roots to build a successful flute studio. This episode dives into resilience, the power of storytelling, and how to embrace life's unexpected pivots while pursuing artistic and professional goals. Main Points: Overcoming Personal Challenges: Dr. Sarah Weisbrod talks about her struggle with rheumatoid arthritis and how it impacted her flute career, leading to a period of reflection and growth. Transition from Software to Music: Sarah shares how her analytical background in software development helped her create a unique approach to teaching flute, blending technical sk

Flute 360 | Episode 302: "Just Drink the Pickle Juice!" In Episode 302, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay shares a personal and powerful lesson about embracing temporary discomfort for long-term benefits. Using her own experience with muscle cramps and the surprising remedy of pickle juice, she draws an analogy to overcoming challenges in flute playing and career development. Whether it’s tackling difficult repertoire or advancing your flute business, Dr. Heidi encourages listeners to face short-term discomfort head-on, knowing it will propel them towards long-term success. Main Points: Facing Temporary Discomfort for Long-Term Growth: Dr. Heidi recounts her struggle with muscle cramps and how drinking pickle juice, despite her aversion, was the key to overcoming them. She relates this to how avoiding difficult tasks in flute practice or career-building can hold you back. Pickle Juice as an Analogy: Just like the quick discomfort of drinking pickle juice, stepping outside of your comfort zone, whether in flute playing or

Flute 360 | Episode 301: "From Chia Seeds to No Coffee - 14 Ways I'm Uplifting My Life" In Episode 301 of Flute 360, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay returns after a short break to share personal updates and 14 practical ways she's uplifting her life. From nutritional tweaks to self-care habits, this episode is packed with wellness tips that can inspire your daily routine. Whether it's a creative smoothie recipe, replacing coffee with healthier alternatives, or ways to reduce inflammation, Heidi walks us through simple lifestyle changes that make a big difference. You'll also hear about the importance of tuning into your body and how these adjustments can help you become more present and energized in your music and life. Main Points: Mind, Body, and Spirit Alignment: Dr. Heidi shares how she's focusing on her well-being—mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. The importance of taking charge of one's health, from adding magnesium to evening rituals to boosting energy with healthy fats, is emphasized. No More C

Flute 360 | Episode 300: “Crafting Dreams – Peter Musenge's Vision for Flutes and Community Change” In this milestone 300th episode of Flute 360, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay reconnects with a very special former student, Peter Musenge, a talented Zambian flutist with big dreams of making an impact on his community through music. Join us as Peter shares his journey from discovering the flute at 13, to pursuing his studies in Russia, and his aspirations to create his own brand of flutes. This heartwarming conversation is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the profound impact of mentorship. You'll feel inspired by Peter's optimism, resourcefulness, and deep commitment to giving back to his community through music. Main Points: Peter's Flute Journey: Peter began learning the flute at age 13, with limited resources and no formal mentor. His passion drove him to seek out knowledge through YouTube and other online resources, leading to a deep connection with the instrument. Overcoming Obstacles: Despite

Flute 360 | Episode 299: “Mirror Image - Finding Your Dream Client in Your Own Reflection” In Episode 299 of Flute 360, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay dives into the power of reflection in discovering your dream client. By sharing your authentic story, you create deep connections with clients who resonate with your experiences and values. Dr. Heidi illustrates this with personal examples, showing how being vulnerable and open has helped her build lasting relationships with her clients. Whether you're launching a flute business, offering lessons, or exploring new projects, this episode will inspire you to connect with the right people who need what you uniquely offer. Main Points: You Are a Business: Dr. Heidi reminds flutists that they are businesses in their own right. It’s crucial to see yourself as a CEO and approach your work with intention and clarity. Reflection and Connection: Your dream clients often see a reflection of themselves in you. By sharing your personal journey, passions, and vulnerabilities, you buil

Flute 360 | Episode 298: “Minds Aligned - How Your Closest Connections Define Your Success” In Episode 298 of Flute 360, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay delves into how your closest connections profoundly influence your success as a flutist and entrepreneur. She discusses the concept that you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with, a notion popularized by Jim Rohn. Dr. Begay shares personal stories that highlight the importance of surrounding yourself with individuals who inspire and support your goals. Whether you’re striving to excel in flute performance, build a thriving flute studio, or grow your flute business, the company you keep can shape your journey. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone serious about advancing their flute career. Main Points: Influence of Your Inner Circle: The people you spend the most time with can greatly impact your success. Dr. Begay explains how surrounding yourself with positive, successful individuals can normalize success in your own life. Full Cir

Flute 360 | Episode 297: “Lead by Example - Embracing Your Zone of Genius to Inspire Peers” In this powerful episode of Flute 360, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay encourages you to step boldly into your zone of genius, not just for yourself but for your entire community. By embracing your authentic self, you’re not only serving your own artistic journey but also empowering your peers and colleagues to do the same. Through personal stories and insightful reflections, Heidi shares how showing up authentically can create a ripple effect, inspiring others in ways you may never have imagined. If you’ve ever hesitated to put yourself out there, this episode will give you the courage and motivation to take that step, knowing that your example could be the very thing that sparks someone else's creativity. Main Points: The Power of Authenticity: By being your true self, you give permission to others to do the same, creating a supportive and inspiring community. Overcoming Self-Doubt: Learn how to shift your perspective from fear