Stay ConnectedEvery week, we sit down with an acclaimed and venerable songwriter to intimately discuss what happens behind closed doors in the music industry. There are millions of singers, thousands of artists, and only 40 top songs per genre at a time… this podcast is about the people who make them. Produced by Joe London & Ross Golan in association with Big Deal Music & Mega House Music. And The Writer Is… ™
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Today’s guest is a musical architect whose fingerprints are on some of the most emotionally resonant and sonically rich records of the last decade. He’s not the loudest in the room—but when he’s in the studio, every note, every tone, every beat matters. A multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer with an unmatched intuition, he brings out the soul in every song, guiding artists to their most authentic performances. From Grammy-winning collaborations with Kacey Musgraves to shaping records across indie, country, rock, and beyond, he’s the quiet force behind the soundtracks to our lives. All the way from Nashville, Tennessee, this master of nuance proves that subtlety can be a superpower. And the writer is… Ian Fitchuk!
0:00 – Intro: Sobriety, Fear & Creativity
0:55 – NMPA Sponsor Message
3:25 – Growing Up in the Chicago Suburbs
6:15 – Musical Upbringing: Classical Roots & Church Influence
9:05 – Early Influences: CDs, Cassettes & Graceland
12:05 – Bear Killer, Drums & Songwriting Beginnings
17:30 – From Church Bands to Writing Real Songs
20:50 – Leaving Home & Moving to Nashville
27:30 – First Touring Gig & Life Lessons
30:50 – Discovering Production via the Christian Music Scene
35:50 – A Decade of Struggle Before the Breakthrough
40:50 – Why Ian Never Quit (Even With Kids)
45:00 – Golden Hour Era: Writing With Kacey
50:50 – Making Golden Hour Using Logic Stock Sounds
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This week’s guest is one of the most successful independent artists in modern music.
He’s a rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer who built his career from the ground up. in this rare conversation, he opens up about the side of the journey we don’t usually hear:
The emotional weight of ownership, the mental toll of doing it all alone, and the belief system that kept him going when no one else did.
This is a blueprint for any creative who wants to build something real without losing their peace.
And The Writer Is... Russ!
00:00 – Intro
02:14 – How Russ Beat the System Without Selling His Soul
04:16 – Childhood Chaos, Cop Cars & Creative Spark
07:06 – Soulja Boy, Pep Rallies & Atlanta Music Culture
08:19 – Rock Ballads & Soul Roots You Didn’t Expect
10:11 – The Guitar That Started It All
11:49 – GarageBand & Making Beats for Friends
12:41 – Wayne, Wiz & Folk Rock: A Weird Musical Diet
13:56 – Why Russ Doesn’t Sound Like Anyone Else
15:29 – Publishing Wars: Russ vs. Drum Programmers
26:18 – Why Songwriters Are Fighting for the Wrong Money
29:32 – The $850K Sample Mistake
30:21 – Power, Control & Protecting His Business
34:05 – Why He Still Handles His Own Deals
35:11 – A Wake-Up Call to Songwriters: Keep Your Records
39:03 – When a Song Hits Mid-Dinner, You Leave
41:44 – Burnout, Collaboration & Creative Revival
45:11 – The Line He’ll Never Cross in Rap
48:01 – Turning Fights Into Hits (Literally)
50:07 – Writing in the Shower & Whispering Hooks at 2AM
54:14 – Harmonizing with His Partner—In Music and Life
56:02 – When He Doesn’t Create, Everything Unravels
57:09 – The 20% Rule That Changed His Sanity
58:07 – How Columbia Let Him Stay Indie (Kind Of)
61:06 – Ownership, Spending, and Where the Real Money Is
63:56 – What Russ Would Do If He Had to Start Over
65:19 – Vulnerability vs. Confidence: The Real Inner Battle
66:07 – Why He Samples Even Though He Can Write Anything
66:38 – Burnout & Building a Life Outside of Music
67:52 – Being Your Own Engine (and Breaking Down)
69:25 – The Hidden Prison of Fame
70:38 – Panic Attacks, Depression & Healing
72:01 – Therapy, Faith & Finding Balance
75:17 – Music as Medicine (and a Mental Trap)
78:42 – Dopamine Detox & Spiritual Warfare
81:11 – Why He Hates LA
82:22 – “I Can Make a Hit in 20 Minutes”—But Should I?
83:33 – Escaping the Productivity Hamster Wheel
84:38 – A $25M Lesson Every Artist Should Hear
86:51 – Love, Identity, and the Power of a Creative Partner
89:09 – Real Talk on Timing, Trust, and Tension
90:54 – What Actually Grounds Russ (That You Don’t See Online)
92:33 – What He Hopes to Be Remembered For
94:10 – For the Dreamer Who’s Almost Out of Gas
96:22 – Why Gratitude Isn’t Optional
97:47 – Ego vs. Purpose: The Shift That Saved His Career
99:21 – Navigating Hate, Criticism & Longevity
102:06 – Owning Your Story Without Needing a Comeback
104:33 – Faith, Flow & Letting Go
107:18 – Redefining Wealth: What Energy Are You Leaving Behind?
109:55 – Art as Therapy: Why He’ll Never Stop Writing
112:11 – Leaving a Legacy Without Forcing It
115:03 – What He Still Doesn’t Feel Comfortable Sharing
117:12 – A Final Message to Artists Who Feel Alone
120:10 – Outro: What Russ Hopes You Take From This Episode
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In this special episode, Ross Golan sits down with David Israelite, the influential President and CEO of the National Music Publishers Association (NMPA). A fierce and tireless advocate for songwriters, David has spent nearly two decades fighting for the rights, recognition, and fair compensation of music creators in an ever-evolving industry.
From spearheading groundbreaking legislation like the Music Modernization Act to navigating complex battles over streaming royalties and copyright protections, David shares a behind-the-scenes look at the work that goes into defending the value of songwriting. With unique insights into policy, publishing, and the business of music, this candid conversation reveals why David is one of the most pivotal figures working on behalf of songwriters today.
If you care about music creators and the future of songwriting, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
00:00 – Intro: Why This Episode Matters More Than Ever
03:40 – How Songwriters Get Paid (Explained Like You’re 15)
05:19 – The Truth About Songwriter Pay: 75% Controlled by the Government
07:28 – The Music Modernization Act: Progress or Political Cover-Up?
09:13 – The Broken System: Why Songwriters Can’t Say No
12:01 – Artists vs. Songwriters: The Industry's Unspoken Divide
13:50 – Ghostwriting, Publishing Abuse & The Elvis Tax Nobody Talks About
20:16 – Why Unionizing Won’t Save Songwriters (And What Might)
23:55 – What the CRB Is — And Why It Still Screws Creators
26:22 – Free Market vs. Rigged Game: Labels Win, Songwriters Lose
28:33 – Why Songwriters Have No Real Political Power
31:01 – Consent Decrees Explained: The 1940s Laws Holding Music Back
33:19 – Selective Withdrawals: A Strategy That Could Change Everything
39:10 – Are Big Publishers Quietly Crippling Independent Writers?
45:25 – The Power of ‘No’: The One Tool Songwriters Don’t Actually Have
46:25 – Are Labels and Publishers Working Against Each Other?
49:45 – The Billion-Dollar Boom: Why Everyone’s Selling Their Catalogs
54:37 – Final Word: Gratitude, Hope & the Fight Ahead
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Today’s guest is an artist whose voice cuts through like a blade—sharp, emotional, and unforgettable. Emerging from the shadows of alternative R&B and electro-pop, she’s crafted a sonic identity that’s both intimate and cinematic. Her lyrics are deeply confessional, fearless in their vulnerability, and her production choices push boundaries while staying rooted in undeniable emotion. From viral beginnings to critical acclaim, she’s stayed true to her vision, building an aesthetic that’s dark, empowering, and always evolving. All the way from Los Angeles, California—this is the sound of raw artistry at its finest. And the writer is… BANKS!
00:00 - Intro
01:07 - Growing Up in L.A.
03:52 - Music as Math?
06:16 - 100% Songs, No Concept First
08:08 - First Song Became a Jack Collab
10:04 - Social Anxiety + Going Out Hard
12:06 - Fans, Fame & Divine Feminine Energy
15:41 - Jillian vs. BANKS
18:10 - Stage Fright to Frontwoman
21:13 - Regrets & Album Titles That Got Away
22:28 - Streaming Era Beginnings
27:02 - Indie Artist Real Talk
31:12 - Viral Hits vs. Tour Culture
34:09 - “Don’t Try To Write a Hit”
36:04 - Underrated BANKS Songs
38:05 - Why This Album, Why Now
39:28 - How “I Hate Your Ex” Happened
41:24 - Voice as a Shape-Shifter
42:02 - Collaboration Energy Shift
43:03 - Studio Magic Stories
44:14 - Writing for Other Artists?
46:18 - Why Artists Look to BANKS
48:06 - 3 Life-Changing Decisions
49:40 - Five-for-Five Lightning Round
53:08 - Music + Visuals Are One
54:16 - Ross on BANKS’ Legacy
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Today’s guest is one of the most original minds in modern music—a genre-defying powerhouse who returns to this podcast six years after his first unforgettable visit. Hailing from Long Island, this producer, performer, and lyrical architect has built a sonic universe entirely his own. He’s the mastermind behind cinematic pop records that blur the line between the underground and the mainstream, with a resume that spans from crafting platinum hits for chart-toppers to delivering soul-baring solo projects that redefine authenticity. Now a father of three, his creativity has only deepened, as he balances vulnerability and virtuosity with relentless hustle. He’s not just a hitmaker—he’s a visionary, a builder, and a storyteller for a generation that craves depth. And the writer is… Jon Bellion!
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Bellion’s Return & Industry Fire
0:36 Ross ATWI Intro
2:05 Supporting Songwriters’ Rights
2:41 Jon Bellion Returns After 6 Years
3:56 Jon vs. the Algorithm
6:56 AI, Effort & Meaning
9:22 Craft Over Convenience
11:57 Identity, Process & Philosophy
18:21 Credit, Ego & Industry Power
25:32 Sponsor Message from NMPA
27:09 Staying Dangerous with Purpose
32:06 Becoming the Label
45:07 Removing Ego from the Process
50:41 Returning to Joy in Creation
54:58 Art vs. Math in Production
57:23 Hits Beyond the U.S.
1:05:16 On Raising Creative Kids
1:07:52 Jon's Words of Advice to His Younger Self
1:18:06 Grief, Healing & Writing Through Loss
1:22:32 What Success Really Means in 2025
1:25:00 Writing vs. Recognition
1:47:58 ATWI Credits & Closing Reflections
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Today’s guest is a Latin music powerhouse whose pen has changed the game globally. With a genre-defying catalog that spans regional Mexican, reggaeton, pop, and bachata, he’s crafted chart-topping hits that cross borders and break records. His work has earned him 26 Grammy wins, making him one of the most decorated writers in the industry today. But beyond the accolades, he’s a true musical chameleon—effortlessly fusing cultural roots with modern sounds to create melodies that resonate worldwide. He brings heart, hustle, and authenticity to everything he touches.
And the writer is… Edgar Barrera!
Timestamp | Chapter Title
00:00 | Intro and Sponsor
00:45 | Meet Your Host: Ross Golan
01:08 | Follow @AndTheWriterIs
01:17 | Presented by NMPA
02:09 | Guest Introduction: Edgar Barrera
03:00 | How Edgar Became a Hitmaker
06:30 | Global Success and Crossover Hits
10:00 | Writing for Regional Mexican Artists
15:00 | Secrets Behind Chart-Topping Songs
19:00 | Challenges and Pressure of Success
23:00 | Building a Cross-Cultural Career
28:00 | The Power of Simplicity in Songwriting
32:00 | Lessons from Collaborating with Legends
37:00 | How Edgar Approaches Artist Development
42:00 | Staying Grounded Amid Global Fame
47:00 | Behind The Scenes of Major Hits
52:00 | Edgar’s Advice to the Next Generation
57:00 | Wrapping Up: Gratitude and Staying Inspired
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Today’s guest is the mastermind behind some of the most captivating sounds in modern R&B and pop. With an ear for creating melodies that feel as intimate as they do expansive, he’s responsible for shaping hits that make you feel everything from joy to heartbreak. Whether he's behind the boards or penning the perfect lyrics, his ability to blend vulnerability with irresistible hooks has made him a go-to collaborator for some of the biggest names in music. From soulful ballads to undeniable bangers, his tracks are the ones that never leave your head—and always leave you wanting more.
And the producer and songwriter is...Dernst "D'Mile" Emile II!
00:00 - Cold Open: Gaga, Bruno & a Midnight Session
00:28 - Intro: Welcome to And The Writer Is
01:22 - How D’Mile Got His Name
05:10 - Growing Up with Jazz, Gospel & Biggie
10:30 - Producing His First Song at Age 6
12:15 - Almost Signed to Universal at 19
16:45 - Rodney Jerkins & Darkchild Studio Era
21:05 - 9 Creatives in a 3-Bedroom Apartment
25:30 - Inspiration vs. Competition in the Come-Up
27:20 - D’Mile Nearly Quit Music in 2017
34:17 - The Comeback: Lucky Daye & Victoria Monét
38:16 - How Silk Sonic Started from One Song
46:44 - Making “Leave the Door Open”
50:18 - “Die With A Smile” feat. Gaga & Bruno
51:58 - Producing the Artist’s Soul
59:00 - Copy-Paste Industry vs. Timeless Records
01:01:08 - Final Thoughts: Doing It His Way
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Today’s guest is a genre-defying vocal powerhouse who’s been taking the music world by storm. Raised in the South with a love for soul, country, R&B, and rock, he blended these influences into an unmistakable style that’s all his own. With a voice that’s as powerful as it is emotive, he doesn’t just sing—he connects, turning raw, soulful covers into hits and proving he’s more than just a voice. He’s a true artist and songwriter who’s crafted songs about love, loss, and everything in between, resonating with millions around the world. Oh, and did we mention he’s one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet? If you haven’t heard his music yet, trust us, you’ll want to.
And the writer is... Teddy Swims
Timestamp | Chapter Title
00:00 | Quick Message from Our Sponsor
01:43 | Meet Your Host: Ross Golan
02:39 | Teddy Swims: From Georgia to Global
03:30 | Leaving Football Behind for Music
08:00 | Finding His Voice Through Theater
12:30 | Tattoos, Identity, and Early Reinvention
17:00 | First Bands, Bad Songs, and Growing Up
21:50 | Sponsor Break
22:00 | The Dark Side of Touring and Mental Health
26:30 | Why Teddy Started Therapy (and How It Changed Him)
31:00 | Songwriting Camps, Magic, and the "Elf Theory"
35:30 | How Teddy Learned to Choose Songs Like a Pro
40:00 | The Origin of "Teddy Swims" (and a Crazy Early Tour)
44:00 | How Covers Blew Up Teddy’s Career During the Pandemic
47:00 | Signing with Warner: Building a Real Career
50:00 | Losing Faith, Rebuilding, and Finding His Sound
53:00 | Breaking Out with "Lose Control"
56:00 | What It Takes to Really Make It (Lessons Learned)
58:00 | 5 for 5: Teddy Swims Rapid Fire Q&A
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We’re excited to announce a special bonus interview with Sung Cho, the CEO & Founder of our incredible sponsor, Chartmetric. Ross recently sat down with Sung to discuss how his company is building the world’s best analytics team in the music industry. Read below to find out more about Chartmetric and listen to this conversation on any platform you find your podcasts!
Chartmetric is the all-in-one platform for artists and music industry professionals, providing comprehensive streaming, social, and audience data. Since 2016, Chartmetric has strived to ensure everyone can have a successful career in music. Their easy-to-understand and powerful analytics on over 10 million artists and 100 million tracks will help answer all of your questions, from tracking your stats to discovering new talents. From playlist placements to stream counts to follower demographics and much more, it’s never been easier to understand how your artists fit in the music industry, and how they can grow. What’s even better is that Chartmetric does the work for you, providing actionable insights and beautiful visuals on their up-to-date global data from over 15 different social and streaming platforms. Find out more at chartmetric.com!
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Today’s guest is a true jack-of-all-trades—part artist, part entrepreneur, and full-on icon. From nurturing a die-hard fanbase to dominating the charts across genres, he’s built an empire over the course of his incredible career. This diamond certified superstar is the pride of Pittsburgh and has proven time and time again that you can do it all—and do it well.
And The Writer Is…Wiz Khalifa!
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