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This show features conversations with drummers, educators and other creative artists sharing their experiences and discussing the paths they have followed to pursue a life in the arts. We have all achieved success and faced challenges in a variety of different ways and through these discussions, we will learn about how the choices we make can determine the paths that we are meant to follow.
Episodes
Monday Dec 22, 2025
Monday Dec 22, 2025
This episode features a roundtable discussion with drummer Jake Sommers & bassist Mat Maxwell.
Both musicians are key members of country superstar Luke Combs' touring band and have established themselves as highly respected freelance professionals in the Nashville music scene.
Mat is also the co-author of "Hired Musician: A Guide to Getting and Keeping Gigs", a comprehensive resource for building a career as a freelance musician.
In this episode, we explore the value of forming authentic relationships, managing the factors of a freelance career, preparing for touring opportunities, and the importance of keeping a positive attitude and prioritizing your mental wellness.
Hired Musician: A Guide to Getting and Keeping Gigs
Amazon
Follow Jake
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Follow Mat
https://www.instagram.com/mathewmaxwell/
https://www.youtube.com/@MatMaxwell
Monday Dec 08, 2025
Monday Dec 08, 2025
This episode features my conversation with drummer Tom Brechtlein.
From his roots in Long Island, NY to his current home in Austin, TX, Tom has laid down the rhythmic foundation for some of music's most iconic artists—including Chick Corea, Wayne Shorter, Jean-Luc Ponty, Al Di Meola, Robben Ford, Kenny Loggins and more.
Known for his versatility and creative expression, Tom has earned his place as one of the most respected drummers in the business.
In this episode, we dive into how his early experiences shaped his journey to becoming a jazz musician, explore the value of staying flexible and open-minded across different creative environments, and discuss why seeking out live music is essential for staying inspired and motivated to develop your craft.
Follow Tom:
https://www.facebook.com/TommyB1957
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Monday Nov 24, 2025
Monday Nov 24, 2025
On this episode, Chicago based drummer Paul Wertico returns for his second appearance on the podcast.
Paul is widely respected for his artistry and innovative approach to music. His distinctive style has made him a highly sought-after collaborator, with his work appearing across numerous projects.
In this conversation, we discuss his new duo project "Tuxedo Man" with guitarist David Becker, the creative process behind the album, his partnership with Dream Cymbals and the details of his new signature Bliss Wertico Ride Cymbal, and how AI is emerging as a creative tool that musicians should embrace.
To learn more about Paul's background, check out episode 62 of the podcast.
Episode 62
Tuxedo Man
https://id.ffm.to/tuxedo_man
Follow Paul:
https://www.paulwertico.com
https://www.instagram.com/paulwertico/
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Monday Nov 10, 2025
Monday Nov 10, 2025
This episode features my conversation with session drummer Mickey Curry.
With a career spanning more than 4 decades, he's provided the rhythmic foundation for iconic artists including Bryan Adams, Hall & Oates, The Cult, Tom Cochrane, Alice Cooper, Tom Waits and many more.
Recognized for his solid groove and commitment to elevating every song, Mickey has established his place as one of the most respected and in-demand drummers in the business.
In this episode, we explore how his early experiences shaped his path to becoming a session drummer, discuss the value of staying flexible and open-minded in different creative environments, and talk about why finding balance is key to living a happy, fulfilling life.
Monday Oct 27, 2025
Monday Oct 27, 2025
This episode features my conversation with Pat Steward.
Based in Vancouver, Pat is known for his work with Bryan Adams, particularly on the legendary album Reckless. His drumming on tracks like "Summer of '69," "Kids Wanna Rock," and "One Night Love Affair" is widely celebrated.
As a sought-after session player, Pat has collaborated with artists including Odds, Colin James, Matthew Good, and Jann Arden, among others. He's highly regarded for bringing his passion and positive energy to every project.
In this episode, we talk about his early experiences that led to his gig with Bryan Adams, the lessons he learned as a session player, and why it’s essential to maintain positive relationships in this industry.
Follow Pat:
https://www.instagram.com/patsteward/
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Monday Oct 13, 2025
Monday Oct 13, 2025
This episode features my conversation with Bart Robley.
Based in Southern California, Bart is a member of the Sam Morrison Band and maintains an active freelance career.
As an educator, Bart has dedicated himself to sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring drummers. He has conducted workshops, masterclasses, and clinics across the globe, inspiring students to unlock their musical potential.
In addition to his contributions as an educator, Bart is also an accomplished author. His books on drumming techniques, musical improvisation, and personal growth have received widespread recognition.
His most recent book, Drum Up Your Business, offers valuable insights and guidance to musicians seeking personal and professional development.
He is also the co-founder of the Drummers Education Connection Podcast, an online education network for drummers and instructors, serving the global drumming community.
In this episode, we explore what inspired him to write Drum Up Your Business, the importance of seeking out a mentor, and understanding how community connections can help unlock career opportunities.
Follow Bart:
https://bartrobley.com
https://www.facebook.com/bart.robley
https://www.instagram.com/bartdrum67/
https://hudsonmusic.com/instructors/bart-robley/
Monday Sep 29, 2025
Monday Sep 29, 2025
This episode features my conversation with Jeremy Steinkoler.
Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Jeremy is the drummer with the funk/jazz trio Mo’Fone, and a sought-after sideman. His resume spans multiple genres and includes collaborations with many other top musicians around the Bay Area.
Jeremy is a passionate educator, Co-Founder and Co-Director of the BandWorks music program as well as Founder and Director of the East Bay Drum School.
He is an accomplished author and his book "Finding the Groove” is a critically acclaimed collection of essays on drumming, performing, and teaching. He is also the co-founder of the Drummers Education Connection Podcast, an online education network for drummers and instructors, serving the global drumming community.
In this episode, we explore what inspired him to write "Finding the Groove," discuss his educational philosophies, and examine how building community connections can strengthen your career.
Follow Jeremy:
https://www.jsteinkoler.com
https://www.facebook.com/JeremySteinkolerMusic
https://www.youtube.com/@jeremysteinkoler8197
https://hudsonmusic.com/product/finding-the-groove/
Monday Sep 15, 2025
Monday Sep 15, 2025
This episode features my conversation with Mark Schulman.
Mark is a world-renowned drummer with over 30 years of experience performing on the biggest stages around the globe. From 2006 to 2021, Mark was the touring drummer for international superstar Pink. He has also worked with Billy Idol, Stevie Nicks, Foreigner, Cher, Simple Minds, and others over his career.
Mark has drawn from his high-pressure performance background to build a thriving career as a corporate keynote speaker and bestselling author, empowering people to navigate their pivotal moments and thrive in high-pressure situations.
In this episode, we talk about the concepts behind his books “Conquering Life’s Stage Fright” and “The Attitude Equation”, the lessons he’s learned over his professional career, and why it’s essential to remain humble and focused on being of service to others.
Follow Mark:
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Monday Sep 01, 2025
Monday Sep 01, 2025
This episode features my conversation with Steve Negus. Based in Hamilton, Ontario, Steve is best known for his work with the progressive rock band Saga, of which he was a member for 26 years. Steve is also a producer and composer, and recently released his newest solo project Economy Of Motion, which showcases his diverse musical influences.
In this episode, we talk about the concept for his album Economy Of Motion and his approach to composition, his experiences working with the band Saga, and how he finds inspiration exploring different musical genres to help define his creative voice.
Follow Steve:
https://www.facebook.com/steve.negus1
NEGUS: The Continuing Saga Of Steve Negus
Monday Aug 18, 2025
Monday Aug 18, 2025
This episode features my conversation with the legendary Rick Marotta.
Rick began drumming at the age of 19 and quickly established his session career, going on to record with artists including Steely Dan, James Taylor, Carly Simon, John Lennon, Linda Ronstadt, Aretha Franklin, and many others. Known for his dynamic yet simple approach, his work has influenced many musicians throughout his decades - long career.
Rick has also composed music for television including the hit series Everybody Loves Raymond.
In this episode, we talk about the early opportunities that lead to working with some of music’s biggest icons, his emphasis on simplicity in his approach, and the lessons he learned which helped him to establish a successful career.
Follow Rick:
https://www.instagram.com/rickmarotta/
https://www.facebook.com/rick.marotta/
The Drummers Pathway
I’m Michael Scott and welcome to The Drummers Pathway Podcast. This show features conversations with drummers, educators and other creative artists sharing their experiences and discussing the paths they have followed to pursue a life in the arts.
We have all achieved success and faced challenges in a variety of different ways and through these discussions, we will learn about how the choices we make can determine the paths that we are meant to follow.
Follow me at https://www.mwsdrums.ca
Contact Me! Email
Michael W. Scott is a Hamilton, Ontario based freelance drummer/educator who has been working in the industry for over 30 years. His extensive education background and experience has allowed him to adapt to many different musical genres and has built his reputation for being positive, prepared and professional.
Theme Music Composed by Mike Trebilcock
https://www.miketrebilcockmusic.com