In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores the concept of The Dip, based on Seth Godin’s work, and how it applies to the journey of singers and performers. He explains the difference between a temporary challenge that leads to growth and a dead-end path—or “cul-de-sac”—that may require a change in direction. It’s a thoughtful look at perseverance, smart decision-making, and finding fulfillment in your musical path. Episode highlights: The dip is a natural part of any challenging pursuit, but it’s also where most people give up. Success often lies just beyond the dip for those willing to push through. Not all struggles lead to growth; recognizing a cul-de-sac can help you avoid wasting time on the wrong path. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com
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Episode 432 - Top Ten Changes in Vocal Education
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John reflects on how vocal education has evolved over the years since he began teaching. From the rise of voice science and virtual lessons to a deeper focus on mental health and student-centered teaching, he highlights the biggest shifts that have shaped how we teach and learn singing today. Whether you’re a singer or a teacher, this is a valuable look at where voice training is headed, and why staying curious matters. Episode highlights: Voice education is now more collaborative, inclusive, and student-focused than ever before. Science and technology have revolutionized how we understand and train the voice. There is no single right way to sing—modern teaching encourages flexibility, openness, and lifelong learning. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com
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Episode 431 - Seven Ways Aging Affects the Voice
In this episode, John shares his personal experience with age-related vocal challenges and outlines seven ways the voice changes over time. He explains how muscle loss, hormonal shifts, and neurological slowdowns can impact vocal performance, and what you can do to maintain vocal health and power. This episode is full of practical strategies for keeping your voice healthy, responsive, and ready to meet new challenges. Episode highlights: Regular, focused practice can counteract many changes you may encounter in your voice. Tools like SOVT exercises, breath resistance devices, and tongue/soft palate workouts can help rebuild and maintain vocal function. Acceptance is key: you may not sound like you did at 25, but you can still find beauty, strength, and joy in your evolving voice. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com
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Episode 430 - The Sometimes Vowels
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John dives into the power of the “sometimes vowels” Y and W—why they’re more than just grammar quirks and how they can help singers reduce tension and improve transitions. If you're working on mix, belt, or tricky vowels on tricky notes, these two letters may be your new best friends. Episode highlights: Y and W glides help reset tension and ease vocal transitions. These glides narrow vowels, making high notes easier to access without strain. Practicing with glides can dramatically improve vowel tuning and vocal efficiency. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com
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Episode 429 - Owning the Room
In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores how singers can project presence and energy to truly "own the room" during a performance. He explains how outward focus, emotional intention, and energetic alignment create authentic connection with an audience. This isn't about perfection—it's about making the space vibrate with your presence. Episode highlights: Outward energy and emotional intention help you fully connect with an audience. Mirror neurons cause listeners to subconsciously reflect your emotional state—so presence matters. You don’t need big movements to own the room—you need alignment, honesty, and focus. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com
Hosted by world renowned vocal coach John Henny, The Intelligent Vocalist delves into all things singing - from anatomy and vocal science, to performance, lessons, health, artist development and inside industry practices, Join John as he opens the door to the world of singing and gives insights gleaned from his many decades of teaching everyone from beginners to superstars, as well as training other leading voice teachers.
Ireland