This week on the Songwriting for Guitar Podcast, I’m joined once again by my friend Lij Shaw, award-winning music producer, host of the #1 iTunes podcast Recording Studio Rockstars, and owner of the Grammy-awarded The Toy Box Studio in East Nashville.

Lij has been making records for over 30 years, working across rock, jazz, classical, and everything in between. In this conversation, we dive deep into Lij’s newest record and the wild, unexpected journey it took to make it, from creative risks and production choices to the mindset shifts that shaped the final result.

If you’re an artist, producer, or songwriter who wants to.... Make braver creative decisions, this episode is for you.

Enroll In Mike's Comprehensive Guitar Courses

👉 Guitar Essentials 2025 - https://tinyurl.com/yyv4j95n

👉 Tracking Guitar Like A Pro - https://tinyurl.com/5hc97cak

Work Directly With Mike & The SFG Team

👉 Apply For One on One Coaching - https://tinyurl.com/mr3fax48

Check out Lij's Podcast

https://recordingstudiorockstars.com/category/podcast/

Listen to Lij's Newest Project

https://open.spotify.com/album/5tI7MIlksBI1m7HN16urvP?si=ubsEeflcQAu4G9myYelmFg

Most creatives say “I’ll start in the new year,” but waiting for January is just procrastination dressed as planning.

In this episode, Mike breaks down why a casual approach leads to casual results, and how taking even small action in December creates confidence, clarity, and real momentum heading into 2026. If you want better songs, better skills, and better outcomes, don’t wait for the calendar, start now and give yourself the creative advantage.

Enroll In Mike's Comprehensive Guitar Courses

👉 Guitar Essentials 2025 - https://tinyurl.com/yyv4j95n

👉 Tracking Guitar Like A Pro - https://tinyurl.com/5hc97cak

Work Directly With Mike & The SFG Team

👉 Apply For One on One Coaching - https://tinyurl.com/mr3fax48

Black Friday is here, but before you smash that “Add to Cart,” let’s talk.

In this episode, Mike breaks down the real trap most songwriters and producers fall into this weekend, buying more gear instead of getting better. If you’ve ever convinced yourself that a new plugin, pedal, or shiny piece of equipment would finally “unlock your creativity,” this episode is a must-listen.

You’ll also learn how to reflect on past Black Friday decisions so you can shop smarter, grow faster, and make choices that actually support your creative journey.

Enroll In Mike's Comprehensive Guitar Courses

👉 Guitar Essentials 2025 - https://tinyurl.com/yyv4j95n

👉 Tracking Guitar Like A Pro - https://tinyurl.com/5hc97cak

Work Directly With Mike & The SFG Team

👉 Apply For One on One Coaching - https://tinyurl.com/mr3fax48

Join The 2 Day Clunky To Confident Challenge

👉 https://www.songwritingforguitar.com/2daychallenge