Episodios

  • Ep141 – The One Phrase in Guitar Teaching That Drives Me Mad
    Apr 10 2026

    In today’s episode, I talk about the one phrase in the world of guitar teaching that I detest. This phrase is incredibly frustrating, and students really hate it, and I can see why. It’s the kind of phrase that sounds innocent, but when you think about it on a deeper level, it’s awful.

    For people who are serious about learning, this phrase is at the crux of frustration when learning through YouTube and private tutors. You have to have a plan when learning guitar. Different people want different elements for their plan, and it’s all about balancing fun and structure. Take a listen to hear all about the best plan and how to fight against this crushing phrase.

    If you enjoyed this podcast, you can get my free “guitar secrets” video course, which will help all beginners or those who are “stuck”. Get the course for free, exclusively at - https://fingerstyle101.com/secrets/

    Like this episode? Your reviews for this podcast mean the world to me, so please let us know what you thought about the Acoustic Asylum!

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    10 m
  • Ep140 – The Rules of the Asylum: Rule #28 – Don’t Fear the Recording
    Mar 25 2026

    Today, I want to talk to you about a rule of the asylum – don’t fear the recording. Something I encourage people to do is to record themselves playing on a fairly regular basis. I want to give you some clear advice on doing this, so it doesn’t put you off recording yourself.

    Recordings are brutal because they often show you things you can’t see yourself. But one thing that’s important is to record yourself playing something you know how to play, even if it’s just two bars, rather than something you’re still learning. Listen to discover more tips I have, so recording yourself is a pleasant experience and not a horror show.

    If you enjoyed this podcast, you can get my free “guitar secrets” video course, which will help all beginners or those who are “stuck”. Get the course for free, exclusively at - https://fingerstyle101.com/secrets/

    Like this episode? Your reviews for this podcast mean the world to me, so please let us know what you thought about the Acoustic Asylum!

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    10 m
  • Ep139 – The 6 Villains Ruining Guitar Progress Everywhere
    Mar 5 2026

    In today’s episode, I want to talk about the six villains that are ruining guitar progress everywhere and how to defeat them. These villains include notorious figures such as the Time Thief, the Overwhelm Monster, the Coordination Chaos, the Musicality Void, and more!

    Take a listen to this fun, character-driven take on issues that plague most guitarists, how to face them head-on, and beat them once and for all. I’ll take you through each issue and discuss ways to avoid getting bogged down by these villains and achieve progress with your playing.

    If you enjoyed this podcast, you can get my free “guitar secrets” video course, which will help all beginners or those who are “stuck”. Get the course for free, exclusively at - https://fingerstyle101.com/secrets/

    Like this episode? Your reviews for this podcast mean the world to me, so please let us know what you thought about the Acoustic Asylum!

    Más Menos
    12 m
  • Ep138 – The Critical 3Ps of Guitar Playing That Make Or Break Your Music (Especially After 50)
    Feb 14 2026

    Today, we’re talking about one of the most important things in guitar playing – the 3 Ps of guitar playing. Ignore them at your peril, they’re the key to staying relaxed, having fun, and playing well. These are the core essentials of playing guitar.

    If you get one wrong, you’ll struggle to a certain degree, if you get two wrong, things are going to be harder, and if you get three wrong, you’ve probably already smashed up your guitar. Take a listen to discover the 3Ps of guitar to learn how to improve your playing with ease and simplicity.

    If you enjoyed this podcast, you can get my free “guitar secrets” video course, which will help all beginners or those who are “stuck”. Get the course for free, exclusively at - https://fingerstyle101.com/secrets/

    Like this episode? Your reviews for this podcast mean the world to me, so please let us know what you thought about the Acoustic Asylum!

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    11 m
  • Ep137 – The Rules of the Asylum: Rule #27 – Stop Being Your Own Worst Enemy on Guitar
    Feb 6 2026

    In today’s podcast, I talk about the new rule of the asylum: stop being your own worst enemy. I offer some tips on how to counter this kind of thinking, including not letting a bad day lead you to spiral. We all tend to get stuck in some negative thinking, but it’s important to interrupt that and try to finish on a positive note.

    Always aim to end your practice sessions by playing something fun you enjoy and try not to push yourself too hard. Everybody should have a simple piece that they can play and have fun with. If you do make the odd mistake, it’s ok! Take a listen to discover more tips on how to apply this rule!

    If you enjoyed this podcast, you can get my free “guitar secrets” video course, which will help all beginners or those who are “stuck”. Get the course for free, exclusively at - https://fingerstyle101.com/secrets/

    Like this episode? Your reviews for this podcast mean the world to me, so please let us know what you thought about the Acoustic Asylum!

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    6 m
  • Ep136 – The Joy of Getting Lost on the Guitar (The Right Way)
    Jan 28 2026

    In today’s episode, I talk about the good side of getting lost in my garage. I often talk about avoiding YouTube rabbit holes, but the difference is getting lost in content that is contained, like books and magazines. The point with the guitar is to be selective, but also to have fun.

    So if you have a bunch of courses or books on guitar playing, great! Turn off the internet and use them. Once a month,

    have a dabbling day and go through your materials in a no-pressure way. You might discover some new things or rediscover some things you’ve forgotten. Make sure though not to let yourself feel overwhelmed.

    If you enjoyed this podcast, you can get my free “guitar secrets” video course, which will help all beginners or those who are “stuck”. Get the course for free, exclusively at - https://fingerstyle101.com/secrets/

    Like this episode? Your reviews for this podcast mean the world to me, so please let us know what you thought about the Acoustic Asylum!

    Más Menos
    6 m
  • Ep135 – The Rules of the Asylum: Rule #26 – Stop Going Through the Motions
    Jan 14 2026

    In today’s podcast episode, we have a quick rule of the Asylum: do not just go through the motions. You should make the effort to make sure every single note shines. I’ll show you some examples of how to liven up your strumming and playing.

    I talk about some easy ways you can experiment and practise to bring your music to life. It’s all about enjoying your playing, but also finding a way to add that wow factor. Give it a listen and discover how you can make your playing sound better!

    If you enjoyed this podcast, you can get my free “guitar secrets” video course, which will help all beginners or those who are “stuck”. Get the course for free, exclusively at - https://fingerstyle101.com/secrets/

    Like this episode? Your reviews for this podcast mean the world to me, so please let us know what you thought about the Acoustic Asylum!

    Más Menos
    8 m
  • Ep134 – The Insanely Cool Power of Bass Runs
    Jan 11 2026

    Today, we’re talking about a cool, fun technique you can do on the guitar: bass runs. Bass runs are a great way of linking chords together and making them sound much more melodic and interesting.

    In the episode, I show you some simple examples of how to try this out. I use two chords to show you how to easily link them, and talk you through how to play this at home. Take a listen and give it a go!

    If you enjoyed this podcast, you can get my free “guitar secrets” video course, which will help all beginners or those who are “stuck”. Get the course for free, exclusively at - https://fingerstyle101.com/secrets/

    Like this episode? Your reviews for this podcast mean the world to me, so please let us know what you thought about the Acoustic Asylum!

    Más Menos
    8 m