• Robert Anthony Navarro Interview: The History of How He Made Music for TV Shows and Commercials



    In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody welcome guitarist, producer, and sonic craftsman 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

  • Separation 101: How To Create Separation Between Instruments In Your Mix



    Achieving separation between instruments in mixing is one of the most important yet misunderstood aspects of music production. Chris & Jody cut through the confusion in this week’s Inside the Recording Studio episode, diving deep into why separation matters, when it’s necessary, and how to achieve it without sacrificing vibe.

    From classic EQ and panning techniques to dynamic control and clever use of ambience, they outline practical recording setup tips you can apply in any session—whether you’re building tracks in a modest home studio gear setup or working in a fully outfitted pro environment. You’ll hear “road warrior” stories from real-world mixing situations where creative problem solving saved the day, plus insights into how too much separation can actually flatten a mix rather than enhance it.

    Is separation a technical checkbox, or an artistic choice that depends on context? Chris & Jody break down the balance between clarity and cohesion, sprinkling in their trademark humor (don’t worry—no actual divorces will occur in this discussion). To top it off, they wrap the episode with their Friday Finds, showcasing new tools, plugins, or ideas that can improve your workflow today.

    If you’ve ever struggled with mud, masking, or wondering why your carefully crafted parts disappear in a dense arrangement, this episode is a must-listen. Separation isn’t just about pulling instruments apart—it’s about giving every sound its place, so the whole track breathes.

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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

  • OS Update: What Every Musician Needs To Know And Consider Before Making The Switch To A New OS



    When is the right time to update the OS on your recording computer? Chris & Jody break down the pros, cons, and potential pitfalls of keeping your studio machine current. From compatibility concerns with plugins and interfaces to the risk of downtime during critical projects, they share practical recording setup tips to help you make the best decision. One of them recently went through the process and lived to tell the tale—complete with lessons learned and a few surprises. Should you wipe your system clean and start fresh, or is a simple upgrade enough? And how do you safeguard your home studio gear against unnecessary headaches? As always, the guys bring a balance of real-world experience, humor, and their Friday Finds to round things out. If you’re debating whether to hit that update button, this episode is essential listening before you dive in.

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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

  • Do You Need to Own Both Studio Monitors AND Headphones to Make a High Quality Mix?



    Headphones or studio monitors—which one rules the mixing game? Chris & Jody break down the age-old debate, weighing the strengths and weaknesses of both. From accuracy and stereo imaging to room acoustics and portability, they reveal when headphones shine and when monitors deliver the truth. You’ll get practical recording setup tips for improving your mix decisions no matter which gear you use, plus insights into how professionals balance both for the most reliable results. Along the way, expect candid opinions, a few laughs, and their always-popular Friday Finds to round out the session. Whether you’re fine-tuning with high-end monitors or relying on trusty cans in a home studio gearsetup, this episode will help you get mixes that translate.

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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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