Episodes
Welcome to another episode of "Songwriters Unblocked," where Sierra engages in a candid conversation with pop/alternative writer and topliner, Chloe Copoloff. In this episode, dive into the depths of Chloe's songwriting process. Explore her journey from music school to applying her music business degree in the complex landscape of the Los Angeles music scene. Chloe pulls back the curtain on breaking into the industry, sharing insights into the persistence of sending countless emails and the...
Published 12/05/23
Published 12/05/23
In this episode we chat with songwriter Matt Marino about his journey in music. Uncovering the profound impact of finding peace in his life and the transformative influence of living on a farm on his creative process. Marino generously breaks down his songwriting techniques, offering an intimate look into the authentic experiences that have profoundly shaped his career. We'll also get into his move to LA and the hustle of making a name in the industry. As we explore the highs and lows of...
Published 11/28/23
Join Sierra and Sarah as they peel back the layers of the songwriting process, uncovering the magic behind the music. Discover how Sarah draws inspiration from diverse sources to craft songs that resonate with authenticity and connect with a broad audience. In this candid conversation, the duo delves into the dynamics of the Nashville music industry, shedding light on the intricacies and hurdles faced by artists. Additionally, they discuss the evolving role of social media, exploring how...
Published 11/20/23
Welcome to a special episode of "Songwriters Unblocked" with your host, Sierra Cornell, featuring the incredibly talented Christina Martin. In this unique session, Sierra and Christina embark on a journey through the seasons of Christina's life, exploring the intricacies of the Austin music scene and the profound influence of her Canadian roots. Buckle up for an authentic and unfiltered conversation as Sierra and Christina discuss the gritty reality of being an indie artist in Austin. From...
Published 11/11/23
 Unlock the secrets to creative relationships, dive into identity exploration, and revolutionize your perspective on the industry with the enigmatic Natalie Sharata! In this episode, we'll explore the dynamic world of creative collaborations, delve deep into the realm of personal identity, and unveil groundbreaking ideas to transform your industry. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that's bound to inspire and elevate your professional journey. Natalies instagram Want more from...
Published 10/16/23
Join us for an insightful and inspiring conversation as we sit down with Rodney Alejandro, an accomplished songwriter, producer, and educator.  In this episode, we embark on a journey through Rodney's remarkable career, spanning from his beginnings in Los Angeles to his current role as the Chair of the Songwriting Department at Berklee College of Music.  We dive deep into the evolution of his journey, from his early days in the industry, to touring around the world, to his position now as an...
Published 08/07/23
In this extraordinary episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Bob Regan, a Grammy-nominated and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame nominated songwriter hailing from Nashville, TN. With an illustrious career, Bob has earned recognition for his incredible talent as a songwriter. His impressive repertoire includes over 200 songs recorded by contemporary country artists such as Keith Urban, Luke Bryan, and Jake Owen. Not only that, but legendary artists ranging from Kenny Rogers to...
Published 07/31/23
In this episode, Sierra talks with Sophie Truax, a talented queer songwriter and artist hailing from Seattle, WA, and currently based in Los Angeles. At just 22 years old, Sophie writes concept-driven and left-of-center lyrics. With a diverse range of influences, they skillfully navigate various genres while also releasing music under their own artist project. Sophie shares valuable insights, personal experiences, and an inside look at the life of a songwriter. We kick things off by...
Published 07/17/23
Get ready to dive deep into the life of an LA songwriter as we sit down with the incredibly talented Karissa Bone. From brutally honest lyrics to captivating pop aesthetics, Karissa's music is a haven between the worlds of Bon Iver and Olivia Rodrigo. Join us as we unravel her creative process, share valuable insights on music school, the importance of criticism, and find inspiration in the everyday. Karissa Bone, hailing from Saginaw, Michigan, is an artist and songwriter with a knack for...
Published 07/10/23
Join us in this episode as we delve into the themes of being seen as songwriters and artists, trusting the journey of our careers, and discovering our unique message.  Our guest for today's episode is pop/R&B songwriter and artist, Riley Wells. With her unique blend of confidence, pop sensibility, and a touch of sophistication, Riley effortlessly delivers pop R&B music for the modern goddesses. Drawing inspiration from contemporary R&B and dance pop, Riley's sound captivates...
Published 07/03/23
In this episode Sierra and Percy discuss how technology has changed since they were kids, the downfalls of perfectionism, and how to know when a song is finished. Percy Bluu (born Grant Keller Robertson) is an American songwriter/recording artist/mix engineer from Memphis, TN. Although he's been submerged in music from a very young age, his official debut as "Percy Bluu" was in Late 2021. Influenced by genres such as Afrofusion, Pop, Dancehall, R&B, Hip-Hop & Melodic Rap...
Published 04/17/23
In this episode Sierra and Sara discuss how their approach to music has changed since they started working in the music industry, the importance of choosing the path that's right for you, and discussed creative ways to make money as a songwriter. Follow the podcast on Instagram and TikTok @Songwriters_Unblocked. Check out SARAS on Spotify. 
Published 04/10/23
In this episode Sierra and Jake discuss how judgement stifles the process of creation, how to take a more free-form approach to writing, and how songwriting can be used in music therapy. Follow the podcast on Instagram and TikTok @Songwriters_Unblocked. Follow Jake @washburnandtheriver and listen to him on Spotify. 
Published 03/27/23
In this episode Sierra and Jayne discuss Jayne's healing process through music and how her age has benefited her artistry along with the beauty of dogs, channeling as a method of songwriting and much more. “Psychedelic Folk/Rock at it's finest" is how 'Folk Alley' described OXLIP's haunting, feministic, metaphysical poetry music, that is designed to say 'F**k You' in the most ethereal way possible. Follow the podcast on Instagram and TikTok @Songwriters_Unblocked. Listen to Jayne's...
Published 03/13/23
In this episode Sierra and Don discuss vulnerability in songwriting and the many layers to a story and the importance of song form and understanding structure. Don also discusses how the music industry in South Africa is different from the industry in American and abroad. South African born, Australian raised alternative pop artist Don Calya has built a solid underground foundation through her creative music genre and her strong performance skills. She is unapologetic for her confident ways...
Published 03/06/23
Sierra and Erin discuss ... the importance of valuing your time and NOT burning out, and experiences as a woman working in the music industry. Erin McLendon is a walking, talking poster child for “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” She believes in love, magic, frolic and play, and she dreams BIG! Her childlike outlook on life is not only a quality that defines her quite nicely, it is the combination of her wit, wisdom and love for humanity that is equally endearing. The young singer/songwriter...
Published 02/27/23
In this episode, Sierra and Michéle discuss the importance of consistency when putting yourself out there, why not giving up DOES lead to success, and how sync placements can help you make a sustainable income off your music.  Michèle is an Emmy Winning, #1 hit music producer, arranger, and songwriter who works both for artists and film/TV/media.  She has had numerous hit songs and cuts all over the world as well as over 5000 music placements. Her music can be heard on radio & television...
Published 02/20/23
In this episode, CLOVER tells Sierra about her innovative approach to teaching music and how she incorporates mindfulness and affirmations to create ease and inspiration in her students.  Sierra and CLOVER also discuss how to find co-writers in your city, along with some alternative and free-form approaches to songwriting. Follow the podcast on Instagram or TikTok @Songwriters_Unblocked. Follow CLOVER on all platforms @cloveronthemic and check out her music on Spotify. 
Published 02/13/23
Sierra and Wendy discuss how going inward can help us figure out our creative identity, the importance of evaluating your strengths, and how to develop an artistic compass to guide us towards our authenticity. Follow the show on Instagram @Songwriters_Unblocked. Check out Wendy Parr at wendyparr.com. 
Published 01/30/23
In this episode Sierra and Jayelle discuss the importance of referencing and cultivating a broad reference bank, certain perceptions about songwriters who do not have artists projects, and how their relationship to music has changed over time as they've started working in the music industry.  Follow the podcast on Instagram @Songwriters_Unblocked.  Follow Jayelle on Instagram @musicbyjayelle.
Published 01/20/23
In this episode Sierra discusses with Laurel and Wes of the duo, The Young Fables, our various "eras" as songwriters, why it's important to write about uncomfortable topics,  the process of writing through through grief, and how a song can change over time. Follow the podcast on Instagram @Songwriters_Unblocked. Follow The Young Fables at @theyoungfablesofficial and listen to their music on Spotify. 
Published 01/16/23
In this episode Sierra and Jennifer discuss the "game" of the music industry, how sexism impacts rooms, and why it's important for artists to give songs an home and let the best song win.  Follow the podcast on Instagram @Songwriters_Unblocked.  Follow Jennifer on Instagram @jenniferadan13.
Published 01/09/23
In this episode Sierra and Alexandria discuss music making in Atlanta, the A&R process, and the importance of taking creative breaks.  Follow the podcast on Instagram @Songwriters_Unblocked.  Follow  Alexandria Dollar on Instagram at @driathegoat_.
Published 12/19/22
In this episode Sierra and Sirena discuss how their early music teachers impacted them, how they approach teaching their own students, and how to see blocks as a space to be moved through instead of a wall.  Follow the podcast on Instagram @Songwriters_Unblocked.  Follow Sirena Maré on Instagram at @sirenamareofficial.   
Published 12/12/22