• The Eye On The Prize With Reuben Cohen: How To Become A Mastering Engineer



    An Interview with Mastering Engineer Reuben Cohen

    Every song you love has one final step before it hits the world: mastering. And behind some of the biggest records of the past decade, that final step was guided by the skilled hands (and ears) of Reuben Cohen. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody sit down with the award-winning mastering engineer for an inspiring conversation about his early beginnings, his career journey, and the incredible music he’s helped bring to life.

    From building a business in the highly competitive world of audio to becoming a trusted name for artists like Metallica, Pharrell, and Distinto, Reuben shares stories that reveal the dedication and artistry behind mastering. The discussion doesn’t stop at music—his credits extend into film soundtracks, making his perspective invaluable for anyone curious about the crossover between music and cinema.

    Chris and Jody guide the conversation with their signature mix of humor and expertise, diving into topics like:

    • Reuben’s early steps into mastering and how he carved his path in the industry.
    • The importance of keeping an “eye on the prize” as a mastering engineer.
    • Building and running a mastering business in today’s industry landscape.
    • The gear he can’t live without, and why certain tools still matter even in a digital-first world.
    • Behind-the-scenes insights into mastering for some of the world’s biggest songs and soundtracks.

    As always, there’s plenty of personality, laughs, and a splash of nonsense to keep things fun. And don’t miss the weekly Friday Finds, where Chris and Jody spotlight fresh tools, plugins, or musical inspirations you can explore in your own sessions.

    Whether you’re a producer, engineer, or simply a fan who wants to understand the hidden craft behind hit records, this episode offers a rare look inside the world of one of the most respected mastering engineers working today.

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    Gear we used:
    Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
    Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
    Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.

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    If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com

  • The Eye On The Prize With Adam Moseley: from the early beginnings to being a producer and more



    Great producers don’t just make records—they make careers. In this week’s Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody welcome the legendary Adam Moseley for an interview packed with insights, stories, and wisdom from a life dedicated to music.

    Adam’s journey didn’t begin in a control room. He started in a studio swinging hammers and cooking meals before ever touching the faders. That persistence and humility shaped the producer he would become—one with an “eye on the prize” mentality that has carried him through decades of work with some of the world’s biggest artists.

    Throughout the episode, Chris & Jody dive into the stories: Adam’s work with Roxette, RUSH, KISS, Richard Marx, and others. You’ll hear how these collaborations unfolded, what lessons he learned along the way, and the mindset it takes to stay relevant across genres and eras.

    Of course, it wouldn’t be a gear-driven podcast without some tech talk. Adam shares the tools and home studio gear he can’t live without, along with recording setup tips that apply whether you’re running a world-class facility or producing out of your bedroom. He also touches on the hidden features in studio gear that often make the difference between a good recording and a great one.

    And because this is Inside the Recording Studio, the conversation is infused with humor, personality, and a sprinkle of nonsense. Add in this week’s Friday Finds, and you’ve got an episode that’s as entertaining as it is informative.

    If you’re curious about what it takes to succeed as a producer—or you just want to hear behind-the-scenes stories about music legends—this episode delivers inspiration, insight, and plenty of laughs.

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    Gear we used:
    Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
    Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
    Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.

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    If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com

  • Legendary Producer CJ Vanston and His Beard: How He Discovered His Secrets for Success



    CJ Vanston has built a career most musicians only dream about—and in this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody bring him in for a conversation packed with wisdom, stories, and laughter.

    The CJ Vanston interview kicks off with his early beginnings: what set him on the path to becoming a first-call musician, producer, and composer. From there, the stories unfold—anecdotes about turning down a major artist over something as unexpected as a beard, and insights into the mindset that has kept him grounded and inspired throughout decades in the business.

    Of course, no gearhead interview would be complete without some studio talk. CJ shares the gear he simply can’t live without, offering recording setup tips that apply whether you’re working with high-end rigs or humble home studio gear. Along the way, he reveals the habits and techniques that keep his creative process sharp, as well as the hidden features in studio gear that have given him an edge.

    The conversation also detours into some wild and wonderful highlights from CJ’s career—his work with Spinal Tap, Toto, Richard Marx, and yes, even Elvis impersonators. It’s a mix of humor, honesty, and experience that only someone with CJ’s résumé could bring.

    And as always, Chris & Jody cap things off with their Friday Finds, spotlighting fresh tools and resources you’ll want to check out. Add in their signature humor and a sprinkling of nonsense, and you’ve got an episode that’s as entertaining as it is educational.

    If you’re curious about what it takes to sustain a career in music, how to balance artistry with professionalism, or just want to hear stories from one of the greats, this episode is a must-listen.

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    Gear we used:
    Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
    Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
    Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.

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    If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com

  • Chatting with Robert Anthony Navarro: Guitar Player, Producer, Composer, and Library Owner!



    Part 2 of Chris and Jody sitting down for a chat with guitarist producer extraordinaire, Robert Anthony Navarro. Chances are you’ve already heard his work without even realizing it—whether in TV soundtracks, radio spots, or national commercials, Robert’s playing and production chops have been woven into the everyday soundtrack of countless listeners.

    This in-depth Robert Anthony Navarro interview explores his beginnings, how he first found his footing in the music industry, and the pivotal moments that set him on a path toward becoming a versatile and in-demand creative. Along the way, Robert shares stories of working with a variety of artists, producers, and collaborators—insights that reveal not only the challenges of breaking in but also the lessons learned in staying relevant and adaptable in a constantly changing landscape.

    Chris & Jody dig into the psychology of navigating a career as both guitarist and producer, discussing the balance between technical precision and creative inspiration. They uncover tips on everything from managing home studio gearsetups to refining recording setup tips for commercial work. As always, the episode is infused with humor, candid honesty, and a little bit of nonsense to keep things lively.

    Listeners will walk away with more than just stories—they’ll gain perspective on the realities of sustaining a long-term career in music production. Whether you’re chasing commercial placements, learning how to collaborate effectively, or just curious about the hidden features in studio gear that professionals rely on, Robert’s journey offers inspiration and actionable takeaways.

    And don’t forget: Chris & Jody close with their weekly Friday Finds, spotlighting tools, ideas, or resources that you can use in your own studio.

    For anyone looking to sharpen their skills, expand their career outlook, or simply enjoy a great conversation with a seasoned pro, this episode is one not to miss.

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    Gear we used:
    Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
    Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
    Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.

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    If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com

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