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PODCAST

Take It From The Top

Mini Munch Productions

Join Hayley Sanderson and Gavin Ashley-Cooper as they take you behind the scenes of the music industry to talk all things vocal. From session singing to the stage, they’re your industry insiders sharing honest stories, expert advice, and a few laughs along the way as they reveal what it really takes to make a living as a singer.Follow us on socials → @takeitfromthetop.ukProduced by Henry BrewsterMini Munch Productions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

music performing arts

All Episodes

42:30

Vocal Health, Rejection & Finding Your Worth

Take It From The Top ·

2025/12/14

In the final episode of series one, Hayley and Gavin answer your questions! From protecting your voice during gruelling panto runs to handling audition rejection, they share honest advice on the challenges every singer faces. They dive into the art of harmonising, discuss what it's really like singing songs in different time signatures for Strictly, and tackle the tricky subject of rates and self-worth in the industry.Plus, Gavin shares why he loves teaching young male singers, and they both reveal

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38:37

Jess Greenfield: Trust Your Gut and Find Your Superpower

Take It From The Top ·

2025/12/07

Jess Greenfield joins Hayley and Gavin to talk about discovering singing as her superpower, the difficult balance between artistic ambition and financial stability, and what it's really like working with Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. The conversation covers the function band trap that so many singers fall into, why having a unique voice doesn't always help in session work, and how Jess finally found a gig that respects her artistry.Jess opens up about mental health challenges in the industry,

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32:06

Studio vs Live: Two Sides of the Same Mic

Take It From The Top ·

2025/11/30

Hayley and Gavin compare their experiences working in two very different worlds: the energy of live performance and the precision of the recording studio.They explore the challenge of 'red light fever' when the pressure's on to deliver in one take, the endurance needed for long sessions, and why chasing perfection in the studio can sometimes be your worst enemy. Along the way, they share their highs and lows behind the microphone, including using the right mic for your voice, and offer one golden

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33:29

Julie Atherton: From West End Stage to the Director's...

Take It From The Top ·

2025/11/23

Hayley and Gavin head down to London's Shaftesbury Theatre to meet Julie Atherton in her dressing room, where she's currently starring in Just For One Day: The Live Aid Musical. Julie takes us back to her drama school days and early West End roles, before diving into her work as a director and what it's like stepping behind the creative wheel after years in the spotlight.The conversation tackles some of the industry's tougher truths: the male-dominated nature of directing and creative leadership,

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25:57

Ensembles, group singing, and using your ears

Take It From The Top ·

2025/11/16

Hayley and Gavin dive into the world of ensemble singing, exploring how it builds musicality, harmony, and the art of blending. Sharing their contrasting backgrounds, they reveal how these skills underpin everything from musical theatre to high-profile session work. Your ears are just as vital as your voice, and knowing how to work as part of an ensemble might be the most valuable skill a singer can have. Along the way, we learn Hayley enjoys a touch of filth and that a bit of friction can make for

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37:25

Jamie Squire: Long Days, Saturday Nights & Clapping...

Take It From The Top ·

2025/11/09

Jamie Squire returns to chat with Hayley and Gavin about what goes into creating the music for the biggest show on a Saturday night. The conversation explores everything from the long rehearsal days and keeping voices warm through busy schedules, to working with musical director Dave Arch and the challenge of audiences clapping out of time.It’s a lively and revealing conversation that gives an inside look on the teamwork, stamina and humour it takes to bring top-quality live music to millions of

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40:23

Jamie Squire: Between Art & Identity

Take It From The Top ·

2025/11/02

Jamie Squire joins Gavin and Hayley to talk about creativity, artistry and identity, reminding us not to lose sight of our authentic selves in an ever-evolving and often pressurised music industry.He reflects on his early years and the influence of his father’s immense talent, the challenges of navigating contracts and songwriting, and his journey towards becoming a producer and mentor. Jamie’s insight and experience offer a fascinating and heartfelt look at what it really means to create and thrive

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30:00

I want to be a singer, what do I do?

Take It From The Top ·

2025/10/26

In our very first episode, Hayley Sanderson and Gavin Ashley-Cooper pull back the curtain on their own journeys into the music industry. From first gigs and unexpected breaks to the lessons they’ve learned along the way, they share honest reflections on how their careers began, and the twists and turns that got them to where they are today.Whether you’re dreaming of a life on stage, behind the mic, or in the rehearsal room, this episode is full of insights to help you start carving your own path in

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0:34

Trailer

Take It From The Top ·

2025/10/19

Join Hayley Sanderson and Gavin Ashley-Cooper as they take you behind the scenes of the music industry to talk all things vocal. From session singing to the stage, they’re your industry insiders sharing honest stories, expert advice, and a few laughs along the way as they reveal what it really takes to make a living as a singer.Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you don’t miss an episode!Follow us on socials → @takeitfromthetop.ukProduced by Henry BrewsterMini Munch Productions Hosted on

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