Episodes

Episodes

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Are you a creative dreaming of a second chance at music? Second Verse is the podcast that celebrates independent musicians, singer-songwriters, and artists who got started—or started again—after a more traditional career.

Join host Becky Boyland, a singer-songwriter and music branding expert, as she interviews indie artists who prove that success isn’t just for the young and major-label backed. Each episode dives into real-life stories of artists navigating their second verse in music—overcoming fears, finding their audience, and making their creative dreams a reality.

LA–born Egyptian American musician Michael Isaak talks about developing his hybrid style “arabesque folk.” Raised on Umm Kulthum, Fairouz, and Coptic hymns, Isaak learned production, made indie folk, then took time off college to pursue music. A first trip to Egypt at 19 sparked deeper cultural immersion; he returned with an oud, transferred to Columbia...
Host Becky Boyland interviews New Jersey–based music producer, author, and educator Prin, who began playing piano by ear at age three, gigged from 15, and built a thriving college music life in New York City before a series of apparent setbacks became the foundation of her return to music.
Artist Sophie Bickerdike discovered a new world of sound creation out of necessity during the COVID pandemic. Sophie shares her journey of creating soothing and experimental music for her yoga classes, which led her to produce various tracks under multiple artist personas.
Adriana Douglas, a music artist and creative guide who left a 10-year corporate career to pursue her dream of becoming a singer, talks about how "The Artist’s Way" book reignited her creativity, her move to Nashville to be surrounded by like-minded individuals, and how she balances building a music career with previous business experience.
Becky interviews Kathi Fran, diving deep into Kathi's lifelong passion for music. She recounts her journey from performing in garage bands and clubs to teaching math and eventually becoming a full-time music teacher. Kathi discusses the pivotal moments that led her to shift her focus, the impact of her health struggles, and her re-entry into...
Becky tackles the challenging issue of confidence for indie musicians. She emphasizes the importance of taking small actionable steps to build confidence, rather than waiting for the perfect moment or feeling.
Becky explores the significance of collaboration for indie music artists. She discusses how partnerships in songwriting and production can enhance creativity, provide accountability, and combat the isolation that many solo artists face.
This episode focuses on developing a supportive creative ecosystem for musicians. Becky outlines four essential components: creative spaces, community support, structured systems, and sustainable practices.
This episode addresses the challenges indie music artists face in clearly defining and communicating their message. Becky emphasizes the critical role of having clear artist messaging to stand out in the crowded music market. The episode provides practical advice on crafting an artist's message, including the importance of knowing your "why," creating a memorable "one-liner,"...
Becky explores the impacts of imposter syndrome on indie music artists and the ways it hinders their creative journeys. Becky shares her personal stories and insights from interviews with fellow artists to shed light on the pervasive nature of doubt as they navigate their second act in music. Tune in for actionable insights, motivational anecdotes,...