In this episode, we tackle the common challenge of losing momentum with your goals. Whether it’s the start of the year or halfway through a big project, staying on track can feel overwhelming.

I share three key strategies to help you:

• Build confidence and trust in your ability to follow through.
• Develop small, impactful habits that keep you moving forward.
• Revisit the fundamentals to create a strong foundation for success.

If you’ve ever felt like giving up on a goal or need a reset to regain your momentum, this episode is for you.

Want personalized support to get started or refine your approach? Let’s connect! Book a free call with me, and together we’ll create a tailored plan to help you achieve your goals with clarity and confidence.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this episode, I introduce the Power Reset Ritual—a simple, 5-step tool to help you calm your mind, regain focus, and reconnect with your power when you feel stuck or overwhelmed.

What You’ll Learn:

• How the Power Reset Ritual was created and how it works.
• The 5 steps to calm your nervous system, ground yourself, and take actionable steps.
• Why this ritual can transform your moments of frustration into clarity and empowerment.

Try the ritual today and see how it works for you!

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

Feeling overwhelmed by endless tasks and to-do lists? In this episode, I introduce the Eisenhower Matrix, a simple yet powerful framework to help you prioritize effectively and regain control of your time and energy.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why not all tasks are created equal and how to focus on what truly matters.
• The four categories of the Eisenhower Matrix: Do Now, Schedule, Delegate, and Delete.
• Practical examples to help you apply this framework in your career, personal life, and musical journey.
• How deleting non-essential tasks is a strategic move, not a failure.

If you're ready to create clarity in your life and focus on what moves you forward, this episode is for you! Tune in to discover how this tool can help you finish the year strong and step into 2025 with intention and purpose.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

In this episode, I share how gratitude can transform the way you approach music. We’ll explore:

• Why gratitude isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a powerful mindset for growth.
• How gratitude shifts focus from frustration to possibility.
• Real-life examples of how gratitude boosts motivation, builds resilience, and fosters confidence.

Plus, I’ll walk you through a quick 3-minute gratitude exercise that will supercharge your practice and performance.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffre

Feeling stuck in your musical career? In this episode, we’re tackling how to make clear, confident decisions that move you forward. We’ll look at why we avoid making choices, how to break through the fear, and simple strategies to pick the path that’s right for you. I’ll share real examples musicians face every day—from auditions to career changes—to help you make decisions that bring you closer to the life you want.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this episode, I sit down with cellist Zlatomir Fung to explore the art of practice, mental resilience, and building a sustainable life in music.

We discuss:

• The importance of mastering fundamentals and balancing them with complex repertoire
• How to achieve flow state on stage through curiosity and deliberate preparation
• Strategies for managing intrusive thoughts and staying grounded in high-pressure moments
• Insights into creating a fulfilling, purpose-driven career in music

Tune in to gain practical tips and inspiration from Zlatomir’s journey.

Are you ready to take your playing and career to the next level and create a life that feels purposeful and joyful? Let’s connect and explore how personalized coaching can support your journey. Click here to schedule your free consultation, and let’s start turning your goals into reality.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

MORE ABOUT ZLATOMIR FUNG

Website:  https://www.zlatomirfung.com/

YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuZCNT8-PCgY1Md-ZzjvAUQ

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zfungcello

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zfungcello

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast, I share four pivotal sentences that completely shifted my perspective, challenging deeply held beliefs and unlocking new levels of growth and creativity. These insights helped me overcome limiting beliefs and embrace life’s complexities. If you’re interested in exploring how powerful thoughts can create meaningful change in both personal and professional spheres, this episode is for you.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this inspiring episode, trombonist Sasha Romero, principal trombone of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, shares her incredible musical journey from Texas to the Met.

Sasha talks about her early musical memories, the challenges she faced along the way, and the importance of mindful practice. She opens up about managing ADHD, balancing work with life as a performer and educator, and her unique approach to audition preparation. Sasha also shares her advocacy for the transgender community and offers practical advice on how we can all be better allies.

This episode is full of valuable insights for musicians at any stage of their journey, and Sasha’s wisdom on practice efficiency, emotional management, and living authentically is sure to inspire.

Are you ready to take your playing and career to the next level and create a life that feels purposeful and joyful? Let’s connect and explore how personalized coaching can support your journey. Click here to schedule your free consultation, and let’s start turning your goals into reality.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

MORE ABOUT SASHA ROMERO

• Website:  https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/
• YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRomeroMusic
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sasha.romero.music
• LGBTQ Resources: https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/lgbtq-resources
• Transgender - A guide: https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/trans-guide
• Being an ally: https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/being-an-ally
• Videos: https://www.sasharomeromusic.com/videos
• How to create practice tracks: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4i5T-ngjfo/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this episode, we dive into a key feeling that can help you break free from autopilot mode and approach your goals with intention. I discuss:

• Why many of us fall into routine and how to shift away from it
• How this feeling drives purposeful action and long-term success
• Real-life examples from Olympians, musicians, and entrepreneurs who use this mindset to achieve their goals
• Practical steps you can take to cultivate this feeling and apply it to your personal and professional growth

Listen now and discover how this simple shift can have a profound impact on your year.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Molly Gebrian, who has just released her new book, Learn Faster, Perform Better: A Musician’s Guide to the Neuroscience of Practicing.

We discuss:

• The science of learning and memory in music practice and performance
• The role of errors in learning
• Internal vs. external focus in performance
• The power of mental practice and personalized routines
• The benefits of using a timer and recording device in practice
• The importance of taking breaks
• Tune in for insights that can transform your practice and performance!

Are you ready to take your playing and career to the next level and create a purposeful and joyful life? Let’s connect and explore how personalized coaching can support your journey. Click here to schedule your free consultation, and let’s start turning your goals into reality.

Book your free consultation with Renée HERE

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

MORE ABOUT MOLLY GEBRIAN

• Website:  https://www.mollygebrian.com/
• YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/c/DrMollyGebrian
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mollygebrian/
• Buy her book, Learn Faster, Perform Better here: https://amzn.to/4dTqSLK

Mind Over Finger

Click www.mindoverfinger.com/coaching to book your free consultation with me.

Visit MindOverFinger.com for my online courses as well as free resources on peak performance.

Grab my free workshops and PDF downloads by going to www.mindoverfinger.com/resources.

Connect:

https://www.youtube.com/@MindOverFinger

https://www.facebook.com/mindoverfinger/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindoverfinger

https://www.instagram.com/mindoverfinger/

THANK YOU:

Most sincere thank you to composer Jim Stephenson who graciously provided the show’s musical theme:  Concerto #1 for Trumpet and Chamber Orchestra – Movement 2: Allegro con Brio, performed by Jeffrey Work, trumpet, and the Lake Forest Symphony, conducted by Jim Stephenson.

A particularly important episode of the Mind Over Finger Podcast with guest Lara St. John where we discuss the context and impact of sexual abuse, the lack of representation, and how women often don't get the support they need. 

Lara shares her own experiences and she stresses the need for institutions to step up and create a safe space for everyone by being transparent, and having clear steps to handle sexual harassment and assault. 

Finally, we touch on the power dynamics and gender issues in the classical music world and the difficulty of addressing these issues in a society that often prefers to stay silent 

**CLARIFICATION: During the conversation, it was inaccurately stated that the union reinstated the NY Phil musicians. The union brought the case to arbitration, and the arbitrator ultimately ruled in favor of reinstating them in their positions.**

Download the transcript from this episode HERE

MORE ABOUT LARA ST. JOHN

• Website:  https://www.larastjohn.com/
• YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/@StJohnLara
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AncalagonRecords
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stjohnlara/
• Lara St. John & the Curtis Institute: https://larastjohn.club/ 

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): https://www.rainn.org/

• Offers support, information, and a hotline for victims of sexual assault.

National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC): https://www.nsvrc.org/

• Provides resources and information on sexual violence prevention and support for survivors.

Me Too Movement: https://metoomvmt.org/

• Advocacy and support network for survivors of sexual violence.

Time's Up: https://timesupnow.org/

• An organization that addresses workplace sexual harassment and inequality.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): https://www.eeoc.gov/

• Federal agency providing information and support on workplace discrimination and harassment.

National Women’s Law Center (NWLC): https://nwlc.org/

• Provides legal information and resources related to sexual harassment and gender equality in the workplace.

Writers Guild of America’s “MYConnext” Tool: https://www.wga.org/members/employment-resources/know-your-rights

• Resource for reporting workplace harassment and finding support.

The Black Orchestral Network: https://www.blackorchestralnetwork.org/

• Advocacy for equity in orchestral settings, including addressing issues of harassment and discrimination.

American Federation of Musicians (AFM): https://www.afm.org/

• Union providing support and resources for musicians, including initiatives against harassment.

Chicago Federation of Musicians’ #NotMe App: https://cfm10208.com/musician-resources/fair-employment-practices-and-notme

• An app for reporting harassment within the music industry.

Change the Culture Committee – Proposal Document: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13f_eQl2VEaRF1pxIKkdsUcJr4mEmNy87/view?usp=sharing

Lara St-John & The Curtis Institute – Articles catalog: https://larastjohn.club/ 

Sammy Sussman – Articles catalog: https://sammysussman.com/reporting?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0KtQ42ZfE7azBHCTWlp5ErasRAyAYWAjrdzwBOPPPAJmlCZcmwnH3kAlQ_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw 

A Hidden Sexual-Assault Scandal at the New York Philharmonic - Two musicians were fired for sexual misconduct. Why are they back with the orchestra?  https://www.vulture.com/article/new-york-philharmonic-sexual-assault-scandal.html

Abused, then mocked- acclaimed violinist says she was sexually assaulted by her renowned teacher at the Curtis institute, and then disregarded when she reported it  https://www.inquirer.com/news/a/lara-st-john-sexual-abuse-jascha-brodsky-curtis-institute-philadelphia-20190725.html

They Wouldn't Believe Me https://larastjohn.club/philadelphia-inquirer-subsequent-articles/they-wouldnt-believe-me-1

Top Music School Finds Sexual Abuse Allegations From Violinist 'Credible' https://www.npr.org/2020/09/23/916108440/top-music-school-finds-sexual-abuse-allegations-from-violinist-credible

Investigative Report 2020 - Statement from the Curtis Institute Board of Trustees https://www.curtis.edu/about/institutional-policies/investigative-report-2020/

The evolution of #MeToo https://www.michigandaily.com/arts/evolution-metoo/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR01peoxpx0nkteuYsbKRI7YGmItXKk-AmiymMtHSLFyOkcfexxLq8UH0BY_aem_WbvxwAylau31GKIPEcDNvw

Tainted History - Former Juilliard composition students share allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct https://van-magazine.com/mag/juilliard-sexual-harassment/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1p_C22c0w4D-YFUyxca3r-uDaaHapH5Ef9Lwbfejr4S4toB0ImL5vZP8o_aem_JvRLjIQ8FxqIBJdzJXQfnA

Cleveland Orchestra Fires Two Musicians for Sexual Misconduct https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/24/arts/music/cleveland-orchestra-sexual-harassment-misconduct.html#:~:text=The%20accusations%20first%20surfaced%20in,and%20making%20a%20lewd%20advance.%E2%80%9D

Calgary Philharmonic removes two musicians after month-long investigation over ‘troubling comments’ https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/theatre-and-performance/article-calgary-philharmonic-removes-two-musicians-after-month-long/

Assaults in dressing rooms. Groping during lessons. Classical musicians reveal a profession rife with harassment. https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/music/assaults-in-dressing-rooms-groping-during-lessons-classical-musicians-reveal-a-profession-rife-with-harassment/2018/07/25/f47617d0-36c8-11e8-acd5-35eac230e514_story.html

Music professor retires from Rice following allegations of inappropriate conduct with female students https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/education-news/2024/05/29/488887/rice-william-vermeulen-allegations-inappropriate-conduct-female-students/

Demondrae Thurman no longer serving in Jacobs School of Music roles after sexual misconduct allegations https://www.idsnews.com/article/2024/05/demondrae-thurman-no-longer-serving-jacobs-school-of-music-sexual-misconduct-allegations

Music’s Perpetually Open Secret - 18 years after they were first reported, allegations of sexual harassment at the Butler School of Music have continued https://van-magazine.com/mag/open-secret/

Former students bring 40 years of misconduct allegations against SMTD professor - https://www.michigandaily.com/news/community-affairs/former-students-bring-40-years-misconduct-allegations-smtd-professor/

As sentencing nears for violinist, four women say he sexually abused them while at UNC school - https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/state/north-carolina/article260382977.html

Violin professor who taught around the world is charged with sex attack  https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/royal-college-of-music-london-alfie-boe-south-africa-borough-b2285682.html

James Levine’s Final Act at the Met Ends in Disgrace  https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/12/arts/music/james-levine-metropolitan-opera.html

Opera Star David Daniels Pleads Guilty to Sexual Assault  https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/04/arts/opera-star-david-daniels-guilty-plea-sexual-assault.html

Royal College of Music investigating misconduct complaints https://www.thetimes.com/culture/music/article/royal-college-of-music-investigating-misconduct-complaints-8nhkp0qx6

Senior professor at Royal College of Music quits over health issues after complaints of gross misconduct upheld  https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13305193/royal-college-music-senior-professor-quits-health-issues-gross-misconduct.html