We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Warner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mike, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work life balance has definitely changed. It took me a long time (almost too long) to realize that after 10 hours my productivity decreases significantly. I have now recognized the importance on closing the door to my office once I have reached my maximum hours for the day, or shutting down my computer.

I’ve also come to recognize that having less time to focus on a task makes me accomplish more in that time. For example; if you have a day job but make music in your spare time. If you have two hours per day, you are so much more effective in those two hours because your brain knows that is all the time you have. I’ve seen musicians quit their job, have an entire day to write music but struggle due to the endless amount of time they now have available.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Looking back over the last 20 years in music it was relatively easy. That being said, it took 20 years to acquire this knowledge. It’s unrealistic to think that a crash course could provide the same experience as 20 years of mistakes, trial and error, late nights and hard work can provide. That being said I have no regrets about the experiences and the time invested, my only goal is to share everything I’ve learned to accelerate others so they don’t have to wait 20 years to be at this level.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
SIP – Escondido. Charlie and Echo – Miramar
Papa Dukes – Poway (the best Italian food!)

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Gallery 130 is non-profit digital media gallery collective, focused on training, mentoring, and showcasing artists and producers. They provide facilities for creatives in the music space to access the technology, knowledge and support they need.

Website: workhardplaylisthard.com

Instagram: instagram.com/askmikewarner

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/askmikewarner

Twitter: twitter.com/askmikewarner

Youtube: YouTube.com/askmikewarner

Other: My book https://amzn.to/3GMWJ1j

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