i wish someone would have told me this when I was 20.....

My Gear:

Microphones

Rack Gear

Monitors / Headphones

Plug-ins

Instruments / Amps

Camera Gear

[LewisTexidorMusic]

I've come to realize that advice is essentially the distillation of someone else's experiences, shaped by the longing to have acted differently. It's profoundly valuable that your insights are rooted in self-reflection and accountability. Thank you so much, Colt, for sharing your wisdom.

[LashonEvans]

Thinking bigger than your hometown is such an important aspect that could change the trajectory of so many people’s lives. Wonderful advice

[TannerByTheSea]

My little brother’s in Nashville with his studio… Nashville does have a sound! But I’ve been here in Palm Beach for well over 20 years.. SFLA also has a sound! I used to make music for me down here when I was young- now I make music for King Jesus! I don’t think I wanna deal with any clients… Studios are different down here they’re behind gated communities… You don’t get a play until you pay… And I don’t mean with money.
I have a nice studio… But we all have different paths! May the Lord bless the one you are on Mr. Colt- Bless Up 🙏🏼

[kidnavajo]

YOU ARE NOT 40, holy crap. You look great for your age man, truly. And thank you so much for all you do.

[bikergeekgd]

Fantastic video. One of your best. As a nearly 60 year old, I would add the following:
- Don't sweat the little stuff. Don't allow yourself or your customers to turn a minor situation into a crisis. Think to yourself: what's the worst thing that could happen?
- The saying that the customer is always right is bullshit. Learn how to fire customers. Work for people who respect your talent and treat you as an equal (you made a previous video about this).
- Don't hesitate. Life is short. Don't allow your bucket list to get out of control. Do it.
- Be happy. Stupidly simple. But if you are not happy, what is the point?

[braxal]

I wish I was 40 years old. I am 57 and wish I that everything I know now I can go back to 40 with. Living is a constant learning process. Every year that passes goes faster and faster. Do everything you can do while you are young. The body does change as you get older. Enjoy it while you can. I am not in bad shape but I certainly feel a difference from 17 years ago. There is so much more to learn and experience. Great video.

[blairholmesproductionsinc.]

In a strange way, I think this is your best video! I’m far older than you, have been successfully self-employed in the arts for neatly 30 years, and your words resonate!
Thanks for sharing.

[jacksonrussellband]

Great 'life' lessons that we can all use. Thanks for sharing...🙏

[OriginalRaveParty]

On camera presentation is hard work, and you do it very fluently. Lucid stuff. Obviously this is a single shot 👍

[jordangunit]

Agreed. Spend money once. It’s just that simple. Stop trying to bargain and compromise where you can’t.

“Think bigger than your comfort zone” is how I look at it. Good stuff all throughout here for not only engineers but musicians as well.

[quirkyfunguy]

"buy nice or buy twice" is something I keep in mind whenever investing in gear

[JedWunderli]

The funny thing about demand is that if your talent/quality of work is high, you will be in greater demand, whereas if you are average, only people with a low budget will enlist your services. It's a two-way street. That said, great information, love it and I can't wait to see that room finished and loaded with all your gear.

[Waynelauro]

As someone who just graduated college and has a studio, this is IMMENSELY insightful to see what things I am doing right, and what things need a mindset change. Thank you Colt ❤

[DrProgNerd]

Ten years ago - pre-internet sales tax and increased Reverb fees - you used to be able to flip gear - usually at a break-even price - sometimes at a profit. Those days are gone.
The advice: Save up for the *real* thing is so spot on. I worked my way up to a Bogner Ecstasy too. After that, I decided to just be patient and spend my money once.
I watched buddies going through a string of gear - while I just saved my money and was patient. So much more satisfying when you get that special piece of gear.

[SonicTrinityStudios]

Very wise advice and like you, I wish I could have told myself life-business lessons 20+ years ago. I would like to add to this list - do not rack up a huge amount of debt buying studio and/or musical gear especially when your business partners are your "friends"! My first studio in 2002, I teamed up with two other guys - we had a dream to the first "pro" studio in Salem, AL - we purchased $20K+ of gear, building supplies, sound proofing, etc. Eight months later - due to unforeseen circumstances, partnership/friendship dissolved, studio closed down and I was left with at least $10K of that debt still owed. Took me several years to climb out that hole. Hard lesson learned!

[iconicguitars]

Came for the shirt, stuck around for some real shit. Love ya dude. As my Dad used to say “some of life’s best lessons are learned the hard way”.

[luisarturoaceves]

Appreciate the advices and the real tal time! Big hug man

[kod]

I personally don’t know you, but through your videos, I can see that you are a transparent and thoughtful person. Your videos are both inspiring and helpful. I can feel that you have a kind heart, and it shows in your words. All in all, you speak with passion while maintaining a rational balance. I hope you achieve all your personal and professional goals. Thank you!

[breakburrito]

I wish I saw this video when I was twenty. Thanks for sharing your wisdom.

[stevedoesnt]

Your content is valuable. Have the courage to put a title that isn’t solely to farm for clicks.