Impropod Podcast
Composer and producer Luke Tomlinson improvises on the piano creating a spontaneous soundtrack to guest’s stories and ideas. We explore the effect music has on the imagination, its psychology and its relationship to movement. A fun, unique and informative listen! Instagram @impropod visit impropod.com for more info and to explore the interactive podcast map!

About Luke
Luke Tomlinson is a composer and producer based in Bristol, UK. Improvisation has always played an important part in his music. He has a degree in film studies, from Falmouth University, and also composes music for Independent films. Luke has collaborated with composers and songwriters from all over world including Echofinch and YB the Prophet. He also plays in the Bristol based reggae band Mizizi and the soulful Hiphop outfit YoMojo.
Episodes

Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Ep38 Phoenix out of the fire - Glenda Benevides
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
California based, composer singer & song writer Glenda Benevides, shares her artistic journey, including a pivotal moment at a music conference in Cannes, that led to a personal realization. She also discusses her current projects and her initiative to plant trees with every purchase from her website. The episode underscores the healing power of music and personal storytelling.
Link to her website
Her instagram
Transcription page
Timestamps (by podsqueeze)
Introduction to Glenda Benavides (00:00:06)Glenda introduces herself as a singer-songwriter and author with diverse musical experiences.
Film Experience (00:00:24)Glenda shares details about her award-winning short film "Change" and its challenges.
Improvised Music Reflection (00:02:12)Glenda describes how improvised music evokes deep emotional imagery of ascension and connection.
Overwhelming Conference Experience (00:03:10)Glenda recounts her overwhelming feelings at a music conference in Cannes, reflecting on her career.
Moment of Realization (00:05:10)She discusses a pivotal moment of self-awareness about her career and old aspirations.
Emotional Impact of Music (00:09:43)Glenda explains how music can facilitate healing and emotional expression through storytelling.
Collaboration Discovery (00:11:51)She shares the story of discovering a music partner, Gene Williams, through a serendipitous connection.
Reflection on Improvisation (00:14:39)Glenda discusses the power of ad-libbing and the emotional triggers it can evoke.
Podcast Experience (00:17:54)Glenda expresses appreciation for the unique format of the podcast, highlighting its purpose.
Promoting Her Work (00:18:17)She shares her website and her initiative to plant trees with every purchase, emphasizing sustainability.

Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Ep37 Magic and Mentalism - Daniel Chan
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Renowned, San Fransisco based mentalist and magician, Daniel Chan, talks about his journey to becoming the The Millionaires' Mentalist and the power of networking. Watch the magic trick here:
Follow Dan on instagram @danchanmagic
Dan's website
Transcription page
Podcast Episode Timestamps
Introduction to Daniel Chan (00:00:07)Daniel Chan introduces himself as a magician and mentalist, explaining the concept of mentalism.
Magic Trick Performance (00:00:33)Discussion about an impressive magic trick performed by Daniel, with a note on its visual nature.
Journey to Virtual Performance (00:00:48)Daniel shares his transition to virtual performances and his journey as a magician.
Early Experiences with Magic (00:01:15)Daniel recounts his beginnings with juggling and magic, leading to his career in entertainment.
Corporate Success and Challenges (00:02:39)He discusses his rise to corporate events and the financial impact of the pandemic.
Interest in the Podcast (00:03:09)Daniel expresses his desire to share his story and love for music on the podcast.
Magic Shop Experience (00:03:33)Daniel describes his first visit to a magic shop and the learning opportunities it provided.
Spontaneity and Networking (00:06:18)A story about navigating social situations and the importance of networking in his career.
Atmosphere at High-Profile Parties (00:07:58)Daniel describes the elegant and sophisticated environment of the parties he performs at.
Performing for Celebrities (00:10:10)He shares experiences performing for notable figures and the importance of building relationships.
Building Relationships in Business (00:12:09)Discussion on shifting from entertainer to relationship builder in the corporate world.
Reflection on Podcast Experience (00:14:45)Daniel reflects on the need to improve his storytelling skills after the podcast.
Closing Remarks (00:15:03)Gratitude for participation and a brief mention of the podcast's growing global audience.
Tools and Websites"Misdirection Magic Shop": "00:01:15"
Notable Mentions"Buzzfeed": "00:01:15""CNBC": "00:02:39""Business Insider": "00:02:39"
People Mentioned"Tim Ferriss": "00:10:16"

Thursday Mar 14, 2024
Ep36 Conducting & Artistic Fluency - Ruairi Edwards
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
Choir master and composer Ruairi Edwards talks about how he learned to conduct, and the process he went through. He also tells an interesting story involving Bobby McFerrin, all with a unique soundtrack.
Ruari shares his journey from pianist to conductor, highlighting the challenges and mentorship that shaped his career. A significant moment discussed is his experience conducting Mozart's Requiem, which solidified his identity as a conductor. The episode delves into the emotional impact of music, the importance of personal connections, and the balance between technical skill and creativity.
Ruairi music on Spotify
Transcription page
Mentioned in This Episode:
Song Exploder podcast - Maddison McFerrin
Timestamps (by podsqueeze)
Podcast Episode Timestamps
Introduction to Rauri Edwards (00:00:06)Rauri shares his background as a choral conductor and composer.
Types of Choirs Conducted (00:00:27)Rauri discusses the diverse choirs he conducts and his musical versatility.
Improvisation Exercise (00:01:39)The host plays improvised music, prompting Rauri to share his thoughts and emotions.
Emotional Response to Music (00:03:13)Rauri describes the calming, colorful feelings evoked by the improvised music.
Thought Process in Improvisation (00:04:53)The speakers explore the mental space involved in improvising and creating music.
Breath and Vocal Support (00:05:57)Rauri connects breath control in singing to natural musical expression.
Storytelling and Soundtrack (00:07:04)Rauri shares a personal story about his journey to becoming a conductor.
Initial Struggles with Conducting (00:07:40)He reflects on the challenges and learning experiences of his early conducting days.
Conducting Mozart's Requiem (00:10:15)Rauri recalls conducting this significant piece and the preparation it required.
Finding Unique Expression (00:08:49)He discusses the journey to develop his unique conducting style.
Impact of a Mentor (00:09:47)Rauri shares valuable lessons learned from an influential conductor.
Turning Point in Conducting (00:10:12)Rauri describes the pivotal experience of conducting an oratorio with an orchestra.
Improv and Artistic Process (00:13:59)Rauri reflects on the improvisational challenge presented by the host.
Bobby McFerrin Experience (00:15:37)Rauri recounts a transformative week spent with Bobby McFerrin.
Personal Connection with Bobby (00:16:14)He shares a meaningful conversation that impacted him during a rough time.
The Importance of Being Seen (00:17:05)Rauri emphasizes the value of making others feel valued and seen.
Remembering Names (00:18:04)Rauri discusses his effort to remember people's names in his choir.
Maya Angelou Quote (00:18:34)He reflects on a quote capturing the essence of human connection.
Setting of the Bobby McFerrin Experience (00:19:05)Rauri describes the beautiful countryside location of the gathering.
Musical Reflection of Emotions (00:21:58)The host and Rauri analyze the emotional progression in the music played.
Bobby McFerrin's Musical Influence (00:22:19)Rauri discusses the unique musical qualities of Bobby McFerrin.
Podcast Insights (00:23:38)Rauri shares his enjoyment of discussing important life processes.
Closing Remarks (00:24:20)The host thanks Rauri for his insights and encourages listeners to join next week.

Monday Mar 04, 2024
Ep35 Musicianship & Pastry Connection - Kristine Dizon
Monday Mar 04, 2024
Monday Mar 04, 2024
Montreal (Canada) based clarinetist, teacher, poet Founder of the Modern Artist Project Kristine Dizon, discuss's her relationship to music and teaching methods. She also tells a story about pastries and friendship, and recites a poem about death and silence, which Luke improvises a simultaneous soundtrack to.
@music_and_language_centerListen on the podcast map! @impropodmap
Links & Mentions
Here are the mentions with timestamps arranged by topic:
Tools and Websites:- "Concordia University": "00:01:10"
Books and Publications:- "Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship": "00:00:31"- "Unpublished Poem: 'Death by Silence'": "00:11:11"
Timestamps
Introduction to Christin Dyson (00:00:06) Luke introduces Christin Dyson and her organization, the Modern Artist Project.
Digital Presence for Artists (00:00:21) Christin discusses helping artists create their digital presence through social media and digital platforms.
Christin's Musical Achievements (00:00:30) Christin shares her background as a clarinetist and conductor, including her recent album recordings and fellowship.
Research on Gender and Music (00:01:23) She explains her research on the relationship between gender, power, and compositions by female composers.
Improvisation Exercise (00:01:39) Luke plays an improvised piece and asks Christin for her thoughts and feelings about it.
Imagery from Music (00:02:43) Christin describes how the music evokes imagery of warmth and darkness near a fireplace.
Story of Friendship (00:03:50) Christin shares a personal story about her friendship with a fellow food enthusiast named Strudel.
Distance and Connection in Music (00:05:41) Luke discusses the theme of distance in their friendship and how it relates to the music he plays.
Flight and Musical Interpretation (00:08:56) Christin reflects on how Luke's music captures the feeling of flying and meeting in the middle.
Pastry Metaphors in Music (00:09:33) They discuss using pastry-related language to describe emotions and experiences in their friendship.
Improvisation in Clarinet (00:10:08) Christin talks about her experience with improvisation and her desire for preparation before performing.
Silence and Poetry (00:11:11) Christin reads her poem "Death by Silence," exploring themes of silence and its impact on relationships.
Connection of Silence and Music (00:13:39) They discuss how silence enhances music and the importance of personal experiences in poetry.
Ghosting and Emotional Disconnect (00:14:15) Christin critiques the modern trend of ghosting in relationships and its emotional consequences.
Music's Emotional Expression (00:14:55) She emphasizes the necessity of silence in music to allow melodies to breathe and connect emotionally.
Teaching Music with Intention (00:17:32) Christin explains her approach to teaching music, emphasizing technical knowledge and emotional expression.
Balancing Technique and Emotion (00:18:51) Luke shares his struggle to balance technical skills with improvisational freedom in music.
Tools for Musical Expression (00:19:35) Christin discusses viewing technical knowledge as tools to enhance improvisation and musical flow.
Closing Remarks (00:20:16) Luke thanks Christin for her insights, and they conclude the episode.
@music_and_language_centerListen on the podcast map! @impropodmap

Thursday Feb 22, 2024
Ep34 Abba Annoyance & Indian Bird Flipping! - Kim Anandi
Thursday Feb 22, 2024
Thursday Feb 22, 2024
DJ & chef Kim Anandi tells an entertaining story involving the band Abba, and recounts an interesting cop drama about a Goan moped trip. All with a unique soundtrack.
Transcription
See this episode on the Impropod map!
Timestamps (by podsqueeze)
Introduction to Guests (00:00:07)The host introduces Kim and Andy, discussing Kim's background as a chef and DJ.
Kim's Background (00:00:16)Kim shares her upbringing and connection to Indian culture through her father's past.
Improvised Music Prompt (00:00:35)The host plays an improvised piece of music, asking Kim for her thoughts and feelings.
Imaginary Ballroom (00:01:49)Kim describes a vivid mental image of walking through a grand mansion and ballroom.
Storytelling Setup (00:03:00)The host invites Kim to share a story, promising an improvised soundtrack.
Scooter Adventure in Goa (00:03:11)Kim recounts a humorous experience involving a scooter ride and police encounter in Goa.
Police Encounter (00:04:42)Kim describes the tension of being stopped by police and her clever escape.
Transportation Themes (00:05:28)The host reflects on the recurring theme of transportation in their podcast stories.
Feedback on Soundtrack (00:07:32)Kim comments on the soundtrack's emotional impact during her scooter story.
Childhood Trauma with ABBA (00:08:48)Kim shares her aversion to ABBA, rooted in a traumatic childhood car journey.
Repetitive ABBA Experience (00:09:49)She describes her long car rides filled with ABBA music, leading to frustration.
Friend's Music Career (00:10:26)Kim mentions her friend's near success in music, highlighting a historical connection.
Breaking Down the Story (00:11:01)The host outlines the structure for Kim's ABBA story, preparing for the soundtrack.
Trauma and Humor (00:14:19)Kim humorously acknowledges the trauma of reliving her ABBA experience.
Musical Interpretation (00:14:40)The host discusses the comedic and discordant elements of the improvised music.
Podcast Reflection (00:15:17)Kim shares her thoughts on the podcast experience, expressing enjoyment.
Closing Remarks (00:15:26)The host thanks Kim and invites listeners to join the next episode.

Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Ep33 a Living Testament to Resilience - Ross Alexander
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Texas based motivational public speaker and personal trainer Ross Alexander of war room speakers club talks about how he overcame great adversity to become successful. A journey through professional weight lifting and collegiate cheer leading, he also tells the emotional story of when his on was born. All with a unique spontaneous soundtrack!
Here are the mentions with timestamps arranged by topic:
Transcription page
See this episode on the Impropod map
Books and Videos"Notting Hill": "00:13:02""My Big Fat Greek Wedding": "00:13:16"
Timestamps (by podsqueeze)
Introduction to Ross Alexander (00:00:07)Ross shares his background as a motivational speaker and personal trainer.
Teenage Challenges (00:00:32)Ross discusses his difficult teenage years, including family struggles and early arrests.
Focus Through Sports (00:01:05)He highlights how sports, particularly powerlifting, helped him stay focused during college.
Collegiate Cheerleading (00:02:00)Ross shares his experience transitioning from powerlifting to competitive collegiate cheerleading.
Graduation Achievement (00:02:59)After years of hard work, Ross celebrates graduating with his bachelor’s degree.
Soundtrack of Ascension (00:03:21)The host improvises music reflecting Ross’s journey of overcoming challenges.
Music and Emotions (00:05:36)Ross reflects on how the music resonates with his college experiences and struggles.
The Birth of Ross's Son (00:07:14)Ross narrates the memorable day his son was born, filled with excitement and uncertainty.
Emotional Experience of Fatherhood (00:08:24)He describes the mix of emotions felt during the birth of his son.
Life and Music Connection (00:11:40)Ross discusses how the music played evokes feelings of life and new beginnings.
Cultural Insights (00:13:05)Ross shares his multicultural background and its influence on his life and perspective.
Therapeutic Music Experience (00:14:45)He acknowledges the calming and therapeutic effect of the music during the podcast.
Promoting Personal Training and Speaking (00:15:19)Ross promotes his personal training and motivational speaking business, emphasizing resilience.

Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Ep32 Electro storm in a crappy tent, & the sound of modernity - Luke Marzec
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Songwriter and multi instrumentalist Luke Marzec tells a story of surviving in a tent during a heavy storm on acid, and the log to leg race. Featuring Luke M on saxophone and some great musical insight.
Follow Luke on Instagram @lukemarzecsworld
Luke is a member @loosecables_ debut album out now
Loose cables Bandcamp
Mentions:
"Bodger's Ball": "00:09:07
Transcription page
Timestamps (by podsqueeze)
Introduction of Luke Marsac (00:00:06)Discussion about Luke's background as a saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist.
Upcoming Music Release (00:00:55)Luke mentions releasing songs under the name "Looped Music" in late March.
Recording in the Studio (00:01:02)The host expresses excitement about recording in Luke's studio with a real piano.
Improv Music Exercise (00:01:30)The host plays a piece of music for Luke to evoke thoughts and emotions.
Imagery from Music (00:02:13)Luke shares a vision of a woman lost in thought, inspired by the music.
Storytelling Setup (00:02:44)The host prompts Luke to share a story, which will be accompanied by improvised music.
Midsummer Night Celebration Story (00:02:47)Luke recounts a midsummer celebration involving nature, drugs, and a storm.
Tent and Storm Experience (00:04:49)Luke describes the chaos of being trapped in a tent during a heavy storm.
Reflection on Survival (00:05:16)The host reflects on the themes of shelter and survival during the storm.
Soundtrack Effectiveness (00:08:17)Luke evaluates the improvised soundtrack's alignment with his storytelling experience.
Bodger's Ball Experience (00:09:06)Luke shares his experience at a pole lathe turning festival with his partner.
Acapella Folk Songs (00:10:20)Discussion of folk songs sung around the campfire, evoking a simpler time.
Transitioning Between Eras (00:11:12)The host and Luke discuss transitioning from modern life to simpler times in music.
Musical Interpretation Challenge (00:15:53)Luke attempts to create a musical transition between modernity and medieval sounds.
Exploring Musical Worlds (00:18:19)Discussion on how to maintain consistency while transitioning between musical styles.
Reflection on Storytelling (00:19:41)Luke reflects on the storytelling process and how to enhance imagery in narratives.
Closing Remarks (00:20:30)The host thanks Luke for his insights and invites listeners to join the next episode.

Wednesday Dec 20, 2023
Ep31 Positive Future Projection - Rob Hopkins
Wednesday Dec 20, 2023
Wednesday Dec 20, 2023
Rob Hopkins, a key figure in the Transition Town movement, and host of the podcast what if to what next. Tells the story of creating a community experience involving projection mapping & composer Brian Eno. For the 1st time Luke improvises to a story set in the future, they discuss the power of positive intention and its relationship music. The episode highlights themes of time, creativity, and the role of music in shaping future possibilities.
Transcription page
See this episode on the Impropod map
Timstamps
Introduction to Rob Hopkins (00:00:07)Rob Hopkins introduces himself, discussing his role in the Transition Town movement and community activism.
Musical Improv Prompt (00:00:54)The host plays music, asking Rob to share his thoughts and feelings inspired by the piece.
Imagining Landscapes (00:02:15)Rob describes how the music evokes memories of walking through Dartmoor's varied landscapes.
Storytelling and Time (00:03:07)Rob shares his current book project on time travel as a tool for activists.
Atmos Project Overview (00:03:31)Rob discusses the community-driven Atmos project in Totnes, aiming to repurpose a former milk factory site.
Community Campaign Challenges (00:04:31)He recounts the community's struggle to reclaim the site after it was sold to a different company.
Art and Community Projection (00:05:27)Rob shares an idea to project art onto the factory, celebrating community dreams and raising awareness.
Soundtrack by Brian Eno (00:06:48)Rob reflects on the atmospheric music composed by Brian Eno for the projection event.
Layers of Imagination (00:09:57)Discussion on how different experiences of time shape our perception and storytelling.
Future Project Vision (00:11:14)Rob imagines a future moment of receiving good news about the Atmos project’s appeal.
Music and Future Manifestation (00:14:43)Rob discusses how music can help create a vision for the future and inspire action.
Multi-sensory Imagination (00:15:58)Exploring how vivid, multi-sensory images can aid in personal change and goal achievement.
Sun Ra and Imagination (00:17:13)Rob shares insights on Sun Ra's philosophy of improvisation and the power of the impossible.
Field Recordings from the Future (00:19:16)Rob describes his project capturing sounds that evoke a hopeful future.
Creative Spark and Imagination (00:20:23)Rob reflects on the joy of spontaneous creativity and its importance in storytelling.
Improvisation Process (00:21:02)The host discusses his thought process while improvising music and its connection to creativity.
Podcast Promotion (00:23:06)Rob shares how listeners can find his podcast, "From What If to What Next?" and its themes.
Here are the mentions with timestamps arranged by topic:
Tools and Projects"Transition Town Movement": "00:00:15""Atmos Project": "00:03:31""77 Million Paintings": "00:05:27""Functional Imagery Training": "00:15:41""Field Recordings from the Future": "00:19:16"
Books"Underworld": "00:14:43"
Podcasts"From What If to What Next?": "00:00:15"
Websites"Patreon for From What If to What Next?": "00:23:08"
Notable Figures"Brian Eno": "00:05:27""Sun Ra": "00:17:13"
Keywords
transition townstransition movementtransition town movementtransition town networklist of transition townsrob hopkins transition townsthe transition movementthe transition town movementtransition movement rob hopkinstransition town initiativetransition towns examples