How do you keep your family and personal life grounded when your career pulls you all over the map?

This week on Secrets From the Scene, I handed the mic to my co-host Max Greene for a conversation with someone I’ve looked up to for years—drummer and educator Steve Goold.

You’ve probably heard Steve without even realizing it. He’s toured with artists like Sara Bareilles, Owl City, Ben Rector, and many more. But in this episode, we go deeper than the resume.

Max and Steve dig into what it actually takes to build a sustainable life in music—one where your relationships, health, and values don’t fall by the wayside. Steve opens up about the reality of touring while raising a family, how his priorities have shifted over time, and why saying no is sometimes the most powerful move you can make.

We also cover:

• The behind-the-scenes shifts that led to his work with Owl City
• What he's learned from working with different kinds of artists
• How he handles social media and authenticity
• Why adaptability—not hustle—is the key to longevity

Whether you’re a gigging musician, a studio lifer, or just someone who loves music and wants a peek behind the curtain, there’s something here for you.

Give it a listen—and stay to the end for one of Steve’s best pieces of advice yet.

Full Transcript and Show Notes

Interested in working with us on your next song?

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Connect with the Guest:

🔗 https://stevegoold.com/

🔗 https://www.instagram.com/stevegoold/

Featured Song:

"Solo Improvisations on Drumset" by Steve Goold

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⁠⁠⁠🎙️ Brought to you by Helvig Productions⁠

Production, videography, and coaching to help you sound your best, tell your story, and promote your music. Think of us like your extra bandmate, 100% focused on helping you create something special that you and your fans will enjoy for a lifetime.

🙏 Thank You

This podcast is made possible by the hard work, expertise, and commitment of my team: Max Greene and Joey Biehn. I'm forever grateful. And thank YOU, for listening.

Theme Music: "Thankful" Courtesy of ⁠⁠⁠LUEDVIG⁠⁠⁠