In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Grammy Winning Producer/engineer/mixer, Justin Francis who has worked alongside artists like Sheryl Crow, Kacey Musgraves, Tyler Childers, Lake Street Dive, Justin Timberlake, Madison Cunningham, Gary Clark Jr, Sarah Jarosz and Lauren Daigle. In This Episode, We Discuss: Early Music Passion Audio Production Path Studio Immersion Formal Audio Training Nashville Career Growth Efficient Studio Culture Navigating Payment Ethics Community Client I...
Jun 30, 2025•1 hr 2 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back mastering engineer and host of The Mastering Show, Ian Shepherd. They dive into the current state of mastering, AI’s growing role, work/life balance, and in-the-box vs. out-of-the-box mastering. In This Episode, We Discuss: Companion podcast episode Advances in mastering technology The rise of AI mastering Shift toward releasing singles Impact of social media Mastering now democratized Lower barrier to entry AI lacks human context AI res...
Jun 24, 2025•1 hr 3 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes producer and mixer Dan Malsch to discuss his journey from guitarist to studio owner, working with bands like Ghost and Avenged Sevenfold, building studios with his own hands, and maintaining a no-ego approach to recording at the highest level. In This Episode, We Discuss: Dan Malsch’s Journey From Guitarist to Music Producer Explore how Dan transitioned from touring with his metal band Wicked Mariah to becoming a full-time producer and mix en...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 12 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer, engineer, songwriter and host of Recording Studio Rockstars Lij Shaw. In This Episode, We Discuss: Friendship & Communication Studio & Workspace Costa Rica Trip Music & Production Collaboration & Mixing Identity & Roles Time Management Links and Show Notes: Recording Studio Rockstars Chris Chamness (Matt & Lij colab) Matt's Rant: Barriers Credits: Guest: Lij Shaw Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA...
Jun 10, 2025•1 hr 2 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Elad Marish, co-founder and producer at Swell Music + Sound, a leading creative audio agency based in San Francisco. Elad and his team at Swell have brought music, sound design, and audio branding to high-profile clients including Apple, Nike, Google, and Uber, working on everything from global ad campaigns to immersive brand experiences. In This Episode, We Discuss: The Magic of KISS Wearing Out Record Needles Hating Piano Surf Culture Guita...
Jun 02, 2025•1 hr 17 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Howie Beck who is a multi Juno nominated Mixer, Producer and musician located in Toronto who has mixed or produced music by artists as diverse as Feist, Charlotte Day Wilson, Barenaked Ladies, Chilly Gonzales, Ron Sexsmith, and the Weather Station amongst many more. In This Episode, We Discuss: Musician to Producer 4 Tracks to Pro Tools Challenges & Rewards of Audio Production Polishing Turds Smart Financial Decisions Health Care Challeng...
May 27, 2025•1 hr 20 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mixing engineer and podcaster Benedikt Hain. Benedikt discussed his journey from growing up in Bavaria to becoming a full-time mixing engineer and running a studio called Outback Recordings . Benedikt has worked with with bands like Pulley and Swallow's Rose and labels like Warner Music and SBÄM Records. In This Episode, We Discuss: • Remote Mixing In Bavaria • Mindset and Songwriting • Exclusive Focus on Mixing • Client Revisions • Mixing He...
May 19, 2025•1 hr 7 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Mastering engineer, Composer, and Guitarist Sarah Register. Her mastering clients include Faye Webster, Channel Tres, Jeffrey Lewis, Alice Longyu Gao, Lee "Scratch" Perry, S.G. Goodman, Wye Oak and many more. In This Episode, We Discuss: Identity & Balance Avant Garde Egoic Attachment to Past Methods Health and Sanity NYC & The Nervous System 10,000 Hours at Once Playing with Kim Gordon Touring Mastering In The Box Being Flexible on R...
May 13, 2025•1 hr 22 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes producer, engineer, mixer, drummer, and composer Emre Ramazanoglu who has worked on projects for Brian Eno, David Bowie, Noel Gallagher Nova Twins and many more. ATMOS for Brian Eno Ziggy Stardust. & Ken Scott Playing on Pillows Mimicking Reverb Fashion Shows Session Drumming Giving a Shit ATMOS Success Apple Issues Dolby Curve Know Your Worth Family Balance ADHD Emre's Site Emre's Band Guest: (Current Guest) Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt ...
May 06, 2025•1 hr 37 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Producer Michael Roache who has worked for Halo/KDA, Blizzard, Formosa, Rebound, and TNM. Now he is launching a new company called Broken Stick. Pyramind Producing Game Sound Blizzard Formosa Mental Health Storytelling Across Mediums Consulting Broken Stick Productions Guest: Michael Roache Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith In This Episode, We Discuss:Links and Show Notes:Matt's Rant...
Apr 28, 2025•44 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes recording and mix engineer at Dark Pine Studios, Max Dearing, to discuss his brush with being struck by lightening, the healing nature of music, and building a studio. In This Episode, We Discuss: North Carolina Talent Journey Into Music and Recording Recording Studio Design Studio Building Experience Critical Measurement Construction Challenges Being Struck by Lightening Live Sound Production Links and Show Notes: Dark Pine Studios Matt's Ra...
Apr 22, 2025•1 hr 8 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Mixerman (aka Eric Sarafin) to talk about his new book MIXERMAN'S Ultimate Guide to PRODUCING Records, Music & Songs. In This Episode, We Discuss: Studio Design & Monitoring Mixerman's New Book Producing Philosophy & Process Five Planes of Space The Punter Budgeting & Money Music Business Landscape Links and Show Notes: New Book Mixerman's SIte Mixerman on WCA #202 Patriot Series Matt's Rant: Finding Your Place Credits: G...
Apr 15, 2025•1 hr 15 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Greg Norman of Electrical Audio to the show to talk about his journey, Steve Albini, the future of Electrical Audio and much more. In This Episode, We Discuss: State of Electrical Audio Steve Albini's Influence Greg's Interest in Sound Internship with Steve Growth and Independence The Financial Aspect Legacy and The Future Links and Show Notes: Electrical Audio Greg's Site Yamaha Sound Reinforcement Matt's Rant: Visiting Other Studios Credits...
Apr 08, 2025•1 hr 47 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau chats with Peter Craft of Boxer Lodge Studio in Napa. From a tech career to full-time audio engineering, Peter shares his inspiring path back to music. Hear about his early recording dreams, building a destination studio, recording philosophy, and working with the vibrant Bay Area Americana scene. A journey of passion, creativity, and community. In This Episode, We Discuss: The Day to Day Past Experiences Influences & Philosophy Studio an...
Mar 31, 2025•55 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Bay Area producer and engineer Robert Kirby, who shares his journey from audio student to studio intern, assistant, and ultimately to running his own studio space. In This Episode, We Discuss: Building a Sustainable Audio Career Gaining Experience at Legendary Studios Creating Opportunities Through Relocation Starting With DIY Audio Experimentation Leveraging Early Interests for Growth Embracing Hands-On Studio Education Transitioning From Ho...
Mar 25, 2025•56 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes San Francisco based Producer, Engineer and Mixer Case Newcomb. Case works out of many studios including Hyde Street and 25th Street Recording and has worked on projects for Ishmael Reed, NVRMAN, and Rafe Stepto. In This Episode, We Discuss: Audio Journey COVID Career Shift City College Program First Real Mix Passion For Audio Mentors Industry Connections Early Mixing Struggles Taking Command Customer Service Learning Process Career Aspiration...
Mar 18, 2025•1 hr 7 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Grammy Winning Producer, Mixing and Mastering Engineer Brendan Duffey who has worked on projects for Bruce Dickinson, Devon Townsend, Sheryl Crow, and Kendrick Lamar. Brendan is also the Senior ATMOS mastering engineer for Million Dollar Snare. In This Episode, We Discuss: Relocation Studio build Atmos mixing Hip-hop projects Bruce Dickinson Genre diversity Berklee degree Teaching plans Pricing growth Networking Grounded mindset Peaceful...
Mar 11, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 534
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Legendary rock mix engineer Mike Fraser to discuss his 40+ year career crafting iconic records for Aerosmith, AC/DC, and more. In This Episode, We Discuss: Mixing approach – Keeping it minimalist & focusing on the song Time management & career longevity in the music business Building trust with high-profile artists in the studio Gear & workflow preferences – Why he sticks to SSL consoles & NS-10s Adapting to the industry’s shi...
Mar 03, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 533
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes George Bokos who runs Grind House Studios Athens in Athens, Greece. George has worked with numerous bands including ALL SINS UNDONE, CALYCES, COSTIN CHIOREANU, and BLACK KAISER. In This Episode, We Discuss: From Musician to Studio Owner Studios In Athens Working With Remote Clients Working with Drummers Nap Time in Athens Sunlight Over Isolation Choosing Gear That Makes an Imapct Being Part of The Team Links and Show Notes: Grind House Studio...
Feb 25, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 532
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer, engineer, and mixer Travis Ference who has worked worked on projects for Imagine Dragons, John Mayer, Ariana Grande, and Bush, to name a few. Travis is also the host of the podcast Progressions: Success in the Music Industry. Travis recently lost his studio in the fires in Altadena and this episode is all about that. In This Episode, We Discuss: The LA fire’s impact on Travis’s home and studio The challenges of rebuilding after...
Feb 17, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 531
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Mastering Engineer Justin Perkins who has worked with The Replacements, Rufus Wainwright, En Vogue, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Shania Twain, Jellyfish, Johnny Cash, The All-American Rejects, Rickie Lee Jones, Donna Summer, Busta Rhymes, Jason Mraz, Lucero, Hanson, New Kids on the Block , Sum 41, Asia Justin Perkins' success as a mastering engineer is not solely based on his audio skills but also on his meticulous approach to business operations. His ...
Feb 11, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 530
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Mixing Engineer David Stagl who has worked on projects for or with North Point Community Church, Christ Fellowship(West Palm Beach, FL), Eagle Brook Church (Minneapolis, MN), musical artists: Kristian Stanfill, Jesus Culture, Passion, Phil Keaggy, North Point Music and in broadcast: Discovery Channel, HGTV. Corporate: Home Depot, Wyndham Vacations, and Motorola. In This Episode, We Discuss: Post Production Broadcast Audio Books Worship Sound ...
Feb 04, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 529
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt is joined by Chris Selim from Mixdown Online and Lij Shaw from Recording Studio Rockstars to discuss our NAMM 2025 experience. In This Episode, We Discuss: Wearing Good Shoes Drinking Water Community Gear We Saw Companies We Like Seminars at NAMM Podcaster and YouTuber Things Links and Show Notes: https://gracedesign.com/ https://gracedesign.com/product/m900-... https://www.audio-scape.com/ https://korneffaudio.com/plugins/ https://www.soundtoys.com/...
Jan 28, 2025•54 min•Ep. 528
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Engineer / Producer Owen Davies who has worked with Broken Teeth, Survival, Fangs Out, Netherhall, Yo Titan, and Brookhorse. In This Episode, We Discuss: Building THE Home Studio Working with a Studio Designer Navigating Studio Design Challenges Lessons from Early Studios Tap Dancing and Legal Battles Freelancing and Passion Projects Links and Show Notes: Owen's Studio Matt's Rant: Things You Should Charge For (In My Opinion) Credits: Guest: ...
Jan 20, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 527
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mastering engineer Adam Haggar who has worked with Migos, Belinda Carlisle, and The Antlers. In This Episode, We Discuss: Adam's Journey In The Audio Industry Different Cities, Studios, And Roles Within The Music Industry His Approach To Mastering And Building His Business The Importance Of Networking Challenges Of Maintaining High Standards In A Competitive Industry Value Of Staying Connected To One's Passion For Music Links and Show Notes: ...
Jan 14, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 526
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back the Pellicci Brothers, Jay and Ian, who appeared originally on WCA #054. They have worked with Deerhoof, John Vanderslice, Sleater-Kinney, and the Magnetic Fields.They currently run Brothers (Chinese) Recording in the Bay Area. In This Episode, We Discuss: Challenges in Naming Unintentional Uniformity Studio History Literal Creativity Creative Decision Making Not Planning Studio Projects Burlap Links and Show Notes: Brothers (Chinese) Re...
Jan 06, 2025•54 min•Ep. 525
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Grammy Winning mastering engineer, Michael Romanowski. Michael’s extensive credits include Alicia Keys, Bonnie Raitt, Lyle, Lovett, Earth Wind & Fire, Kane Brown, and the Grateful Dead. In This Episode, We Discuss: Studio Acoustics Immersive Audio Advocacy Future Of Immersive Audio Value Of Community Collaboration Critical Listening Skills Balancing Artistic Vision With Label Demands Bass Management Challenges In Immersive Audio Cons...
Dec 29, 2024•1 hr 23 min
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes monitor engineer Lizzie Westsmith who has worked for numerous bands and sound companies including Rancid, Ice Spice, Rat Sound and Coachella. Lizzie shares her journey from discovering her love for audio at Berkeley's iconic Gilman Street to navigating the challenges of the live production industry. In This Episode, We Discuss: Role of a Monitor Engineer Maintaining Personal Balance 924 Gilman Influence Addiction and Recovery Rate Transparenc...
Dec 22, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 523
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Producer/Engineer Ed Donnelly, who has worked with Willie Nelson, Zac Brown, Old 97s, Son Volt, Del McCoury, Nathan Jacques, Lorin Hart, Cole Gallagher, The Lonesome Captain, Trent Summar & The New Row Mob In This Episode, We Discuss: Musical Journey and Career Live Event Recording Journey Journey From Performer to Producer Independent Artist Budget Challenges Managing Budgets in Independent Bands Music Industry Evolution and Strategy Ins...
Dec 17, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 522
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back mastering engineer Maor Appelbaum (originally on WCA #062)to discuss his career, his approach to mastering across genres, and how he adapts to new technology. Maor has worked on projects for artists such as Faith No More, Yes, and Meat Loaf. In This Episode, We Discuss: Genre-specific mastering approaches Creating and collaborating on new analog hardware Strategies for effective client communication Building and maintaining long-term pro...
Dec 09, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 521
