This Interview Changed How I See Artist Mentorship

Hey Thousand Echoes friends,

I’m writing you from the tree-lined campus of Willamette University in the Pacific Northwest, where I’ve been directing the YMA Songwriting Camp this weekend. I’ve been working with 11 young songwriters, ages 10 to 17 — and honestly, I’ve come away inspired.

This is my first year leading the camp as both a coach and director, and it’s been a powerful reminder of something I’ve believed for a long time: people create their best work when they feel safe to take risks. And (yet again) encouragement is the spark that ignites inspiration!

We’ve seen that in real time — breakthroughs happening not because we demanded excellence, but because we made space for it. When someone’s creativity is met with encouragement instead of critique, something opens up. And every one of these young writers brought something unique, focused, and deeply felt.

Today’s newsletter is short, because I want to highlight someone who’s been a huge influence on me: Eric Allen from Fathering Artists and Black Box Sound Co.

Back in May, I sat down with Eric for a long-form conversation about songwriting, artist development, the music industry, and how to stay centered as a creative person in a rapidly shifting world. Eric has mentored me and several others in my circle over the past few years. His way of thinking about coaching, and about art itself, has stayed with me in a big way.

This week I’m sharing part one of that interview with you. If you’re an artist, a coach, or someone navigating change, I think you’ll find it meaningful.

We can’t always control the trends or the tech, but we can choose to keep showing up for the work that matters. That’s what this week — and this interview — is about.

More soon,

WATCH PT. 1 OF THE INTERVIEW HERE

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What's Coming Next

I'm developing something revolutionary - the complete Thousand Echoes Songwriting System. This isn't just another course. This is the ultimate toolkit for songwriters who refuse to be replaced by AI.

It's not ready yet - I'm perfecting every technique, every method, every breakthrough principle. But when it launches, it's going to change everything for serious songwriters.

You're already on the inside track by being here. When the system goes live, you'll be the first to know.

📺 Watch the video version of this story → Here (on Youtube)

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Watch the Video Now

Stay inspired everyone!
Josh Schroeder
Founder, Thousand Echoes

P.S.S. If you've read this far, you're definitely my people. Like and subscribe to my YouTube channel for more unfiltered conversations about songwriting, creativity, and building a sustainable career as an independent artist. Can't wait to see you in the next video!