The Tim Kulig Free Music Podcast

TKFM Quick Hits #2: "The Art of Idea Generation"

When it's too much to make full compilations or focus on a specific genre of music, I just sit down and come up with ideas.  I call it my "Monday/Friday Ideation."  It's a really low-risk approach to generating ideas without having to take them any further than I feel like.  But I still have to sit down and do it!
Then, at a later date, I come back and polish the ideas that make sense and speak to me.  It's the only way I can create and do this many tracks on the timeline I've given myself - :)
Want more meat from this episode?  Watch the full one here:  https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-74k9h-1a15def
 
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Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com

EP077b "Mike Aransky - from Blockbuster to Creative Director" - Part 2

Part 2 of 2!
Mike and I dig into his career timeline—starting in the early, scrappy days of new media, learning the ropes by taking opportunities as they came, and leveling up through networking, timing, and pure reps. We talk about what it was like building a career while the internet was changing the rules in real time: shifting audience habits, platform gatekeepers, and the constant pressure to adapt. From content creation and gaming culture to how algorithms shape what gets seen, Mike’s story is basically a case study in staying relevant. The big thread: evolve with the medium, stay authentic, and keep creating even when the landscape keeps moving.
Takeaways:
Mobile technology has changed how consumers interact with products and services.
The gaming landscape is shifting with new genres and formats emerging.
The importance of community and engagement in the gaming space is paramount.
I got to work on a piece of history at Blockbuster.
You never know what one job leads to another job.
My career has been about wanting to be creative.
YouTube is the hardest thing in the world.
Consistency is key in content creation.
You need to be authentic to your content.
Self-marketing is essential in today's creative landscape.
The grind of content creation is a common struggle for creators.
Engaging with your audience can lead to valuable relationships.
Learning through experience is crucial for growth as a creator.
The future of theatrical experiences relies on creating events.
Music plays a vital role in enhancing content and storytelling.
The economics of movie production are increasingly challenging due to high budgets and revenue expectations.
The quality of streaming content is perceived to be declining, affecting viewer engagement.
The future of the studio system may focus on reasonable budgets and shared profits.
The theatrical business is not dead but is evolving and adapting to new realities.
Audience engagement and participation are crucial for the success of films in theaters.
Follow me for more royalty free music:
https://timkulig.com/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063945225723
https://www.patreon.com/timkulig
https://www.instagram.com/timkuligfreemusic/
Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
 

TKFM Quick Hits #3: "On Winnebago Man and Niche Art"

"Winnebago Man" was a very niche documentary about a roughly 4 minute compilation of out-takes from a corporate video promotion gone sideways.  Jack Rebney, a seemingly foul-mouthed RV salesman having a rough day, spouts 4 minutes of meme inducing, accidental comic genius, and history was thusly made.  
The story of Jack was far more interesting than those 4 minutes, though, and the authentic capture of this overarching character arc and story are what made this documentary so great.
This is true art, and in this Quick Hit, Tom Seymour and I touch on just how important that niche authenticity is to the art of documentary and art in general.
You can watch the full movie "Winnebago Man" for FREE, here on Tubi:  https://tubitv.com/movies/637749/winnebago-man
 
Follow me for more royalty free music:
https://timkulig.com/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063945225723
https://www.patreon.com/timkulig
https://www.instagram.com/timkuligfreemusic/
Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com

TKFM Quick Hits #1: "The Festival Circuit is our Theater Run"

What better way for an independent movie producer and director to get their film in front of an audience than a film festival run?  That's been our stance and our discovery over the 30+ years of filmmaking together.
Come check out the first of MANY more Tim Kulig Free Music (TKFM) "Quick Hits" - excerpts from full-length podcasts that focus on 1 subject area for a bit longer than short-form content.
A new experiment to explore what the audience enjoys and how the different parts of the podcast resonate with everyone!
Full length episode can be found here:  https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-74k9h-1a15def
 
Follow me for more royalty free music:
https://timkulig.com/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063945225723
https://www.patreon.com/timkulig
https://www.instagram.com/timkuligfreemusic/
Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com

EP077 "Mike Aransky - from Blockbuster to Creative Director" Part 1

Part 1 of 2!
Mike and I dig into his career timeline—starting in the early, scrappy days of new media, learning the ropes by taking opportunities as they came, and leveling up through networking, timing, and pure reps. We talk about what it was like building a career while the internet was changing the rules in real time: shifting audience habits, platform gatekeepers, and the constant pressure to adapt. From content creation and gaming culture to how algorithms shape what gets seen, Mike’s story is basically a case study in staying relevant. The big thread: evolve with the medium, stay authentic, and keep creating even when the landscape keeps moving.
Takeaways:
Mobile technology has changed how consumers interact with products and services.
The gaming landscape is shifting with new genres and formats emerging.
The importance of community and engagement in the gaming space is paramount.
I got to work on a piece of history at Blockbuster.
You never know what one job leads to another job.
My career has been about wanting to be creative.
YouTube is the hardest thing in the world.
Consistency is key in content creation.
You need to be authentic to your content.
Self-marketing is essential in today's creative landscape.
The grind of content creation is a common struggle for creators.
Engaging with your audience can lead to valuable relationships.
Learning through experience is crucial for growth as a creator.
The future of theatrical experiences relies on creating events.
Music plays a vital role in enhancing content and storytelling.
The economics of movie production are increasingly challenging due to high budgets and revenue expectations.
The quality of streaming content is perceived to be declining, affecting viewer engagement.
The future of the studio system may focus on reasonable budgets and shared profits.
The theatrical business is not dead but is evolving and adapting to new realities.
Audience engagement and participation are crucial for the success of films in theaters.
Follow me for more royalty free music:
https://timkulig.com/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063945225723
https://www.patreon.com/timkulig
https://www.instagram.com/timkuligfreemusic/
Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
 

EP076 "Alex Nakarada New Year!"

(This is the most hair I've EVER seen on Alex's head, BTW! LOL!)
Happy New Year!  Today, Me and Alex Nakarada discuss the challenges of winter, the creative process in music production, and the evolving landscape of the music industry. We focus on the importance of taking breaks, the impact of AI on music, and the significance of health and well-being in sustaining a music career. Alex and I reflect on our personal growth, the role of community, and the pursuit of authenticity in our creative endeavors, all while navigating the complexities of distribution and promotion in the modern music world.
 
Takeaways
Winter can lead to feelings of isolation and hermit-like behavior.Taking breaks in music production can lead to creative breakthroughs.Exploring new tools can enhance music production quality.The joy of creating music can be a fulfilling experience.Navigating the music industry requires strategic distribution and promotion.AI is changing the landscape of music creation and consumption.Health and well-being are crucial for sustaining a music career.Finding purpose in music can enhance creativity and fulfillment.Community and collaboration can lead to new opportunities in music.Personal growth is a continuous journey in the music industry, and in life.
 
Sound bites
"It's been the worst winter ever.""True wealth is silent."
Chapters
00:00 Winter Blues and Hermit Life02:32 Creative Process and Music Production05:18 Exploring New Tools and VSTs07:59 The Joy of Music Creation10:44 Distribution Challenges and Strategies16:07 Navigating the Music Industry18:37 The Importance of Collaboration and Community24:10 The Evolution of Music and Marketing26:14 AI's Impact on Music Creation28:50 Channeling Creativity: The Art of Music Production32:08 Navigating the Music Industry's Challenges37:05 The Role of Promotion in Music Success41:37 The Ethics of Streaming and Music Distribution43:33 Simplifying Music Distribution45:46 The Future of Live Music and Authenticity54:19 Creative Stagnation and Comfort Zones57:07 Nostalgia and Familiarity in Content Consumption59:55 The Pressure of Accessibility and Communication01:02:44 Balancing Creativity and Personal Life01:05:31 The Pursuit of True Wealth and Purpose01:08:07 Self-Management and Creative Recharge01:10:39 Health, Longevity, and Future Aspirations01:13:28 The Future of Music and Content Creation
 
Keywords
music production, creativity, winter blues, health, music industry, distribution, AI in music, authenticity, collaboration, personal growth

EP075 "Tim & Tom for Christmas!"

Merry Christmas Everyone!
Takeaways
Melbourne Underground Film Festival is a significant platform for independent filmmakers.Film festivals serve as a crucial stepping stone for filmmakers seeking distribution.Audience feedback is essential for adapting and improving creative works, both in movies and music.Artists often continue creating throughout their lives, driven by passion.The rise of streaming services like Netflix impacts the future of physical media.Major IP acquisitions can reshape the landscape of entertainment.Franchise economics play a vital role in the success of films and series.Comic book movies have evolved significantly over the years.Cultural reflections in media can influence societal perspectives.CGI has changed the way films are produced and perceived.Budgeting plays a crucial role in the quality of films.Adapting classic literature presents unique challenges.TV writing has shifted to accommodate changing viewer habits.Hollywood's focus on youth audiences may be misguided.The economics of filmmaking are becoming increasingly complex.Targeted content is essential for success in today's market.Independent cinema is finding its niche in underground film festivals.The future of film festivals is uncertain but remains vital for independent filmmakers.
Summary
Me and Tom Seymour discuss the significance of the Melbourne Underground Film Festival, the importance of audience feedback in creative works, and the impact of streaming services like Netflix on physical media. We explore the economics of major franchises, the evolution of comic book movies, and the cultural reflections present in modern media. The discussion also touches on the legacy of iconic characters and the future of storytelling in the streaming era.
Also, we discuss the evolution of media acquisitions, the impact of CGI on film quality, and the challenges of adapting classic literature. We delve into the changing landscape of TV writing, the pursuit of youth audiences in film, and the economics of Hollywood's current state. The discussion also touches on the importance of targeted content and the future of film festivals and independent cinema.
Sound bites
"The writing's bad.""It's background noise.""You can't spend like that."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Announcements02:32 Melbourne Underground Film Festival Success05:10 The Importance of Film Festivals08:02 Feedback and Audience Engagement10:42 The Artist's Journey and Lifelong Creation13:24 Netflix's Acquisition of Warner Brothers15:58 Impact on Physical Media and Independent Films18:45 Discussion on Major Film Franchises21:55 The Challenges of Making Good Films24:45 Cultural Significance of Historical Media28:24 The Evolution of Iconic Series28:54 The Economics of TV Shows30:24 Public Domain and Creative Freedom31:20 Revisiting Game of Thrones32:22 The Impact of Directors on Film Quality34:23 The Rise and Fall of Filmmakers36:09 The Economics of Star Power38:19 The Netflix Effect on Filmmaking40:03 The Quality of Modern Productions44:29 The Challenge of Adapting Beloved Works47:40 The Disconnect with Younger Audiences53:41 The Appeal of Cheesy Movies55:53 Hollywood's Budget Crisis59:01 The Evolution of Film Festivals01:03:33 Tarantino's Influence on Exploitation Cinema01:08:48 The Enduring Legacy of Animated Shows01:10:08 Future Projects and Creative Breaks
Keywords
Melbourne Underground Film Festival, film festivals, audience feedback, Netflix, physical media, IP acquisitions, franchise economics, comic book movies, cultural reflection, iconic characters, Game of Thrones, streaming, film, cinema, CGI, Hollywood, media, adaptations, youth audience, film festivals, independent cinema, storytelling

EP074 "Kevin Macleod - Mentorship, Milestones, and the Road to the Next 1,000 Songs!"

The Journey of Music Production
In this episode, I sit down with mentor, inspiration and friend Kevin MacLeod to talk about the real journey of music production — the highs, the milestones, and everything in between, while celebrating my recent win of publishing 1,000 songs.
We dive into how the creative process evolves over time, how technology has completely changed the way we make music, and why staying authentic still matters more than ever.
Kevin and I discuss experimenting with different genres, chasing new sounds, and the magic that happens when collaboration clicks. There’s something powerful about making music that tells a story — not just to fill space, but to say something. Every project, whether it hits or misses, teaches me something new about who I am as a composer and what I want my music to stand for.
I also share a few reflections with Kevin on how the tools have changed — from early VSTs to the advanced setups we have now — and how those changes have opened doors for creativity we couldn’t have imagined twenty years ago. Still, no matter how far technology takes us, the core remains the same: it’s about emotion, connection, and creating something that resonates with people.
Music is storytelling. It’s about capturing those moments — joy, pain, growth — and turning them into sound. That’s the journey I'm on as a composer, an artist, and a content creator.
💡 Takeaways
Every step in music production is a milestone — celebrate them.
Exploring new genres keeps creativity alive.
Technology has changed the game, but authenticity is what connects.
Collaboration makes the creative process richer and more inspired.
Music is storytelling — it brings emotion, texture, and depth to everything we create.
Looking back helps shape where we go next.
Good advice can redirect an entire career.
The creative process is full of trial and error — and that’s how growth happens.
🎤 Sound Bites
“You have to become the instrument.”
“It’s all about making it better.”
🔑 Keywords
music production, creative process, technology in music, authenticity, collaboration, music genres, storytelling, composition, milestones, advice
⏱ Chapters
00:00 – Introduction and Weather Talk02:43 – Milestones in Music Production05:24 – Exploring Genres and Creative Process07:44 – The Evolution of VST Technology10:32 – Reflections on Musical Growth13:26 – Future Directions in Music Composition16:29 – The Joy of Polka Music17:42 – Filling the Gaps in Music18:57 – Immersive Music in Gaming20:52 – The Evolution of Music Creation22:27 – Creating for Yourself vs. Clients24:50 – The Challenges of Client-Based Work26:43 – The Role of Temp Music28:31 – The Collaborative Nature of Music29:31 – The Future of the Music Industry30:22 – Advice for Future Projects