The Tim Kulig Free Music Podcast
Tim Kulig Free Music Podcast is about Tim Kulig, his journey to building a MASSIVE library of music available for free with attribution under Creative Commons, and the creators and industry that surrounds his journey.
TKFM Quick Hits #43: "The Joy and Struggle of Creating Art"
Creating art isn't always all fun and games. Often times, it's discipline and habit consistency that gets new ideas down and published. It isn't always fun - sometimes it's an outright DRAG!
Finding ways past these moments help creatives get that spark initiated again - and every time you overcome these pauses in productivity and creativity it's a new opportunity to grow in the creative space you love so much!
Come join the conversation...
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EP111: "Tina Berger: Invest Like a Mother"
I absolutely LOVE serendipitous meetings...
Tina and I met because she graciously contributed to my royalty-free music-writing cause, and in doing so exposed me to her book titled "How to Invest Like a Mother".
I was intrigued. We got on a Zoom. We set up a time to do a podcast.
The rest is what you see here!
For further context, Tina Berger discusses her holistic investment framework, emphasizing conscious investing that aligns with personal values and societal impact. Together, we explore how traditional investment paradigms can be expanded to include soci...
TKFM Quick Hits #42: "Overcoming Creative Block in Music Production"
How does an artist push past creative blocks and issue? What tools do they use? Techniques, self-reinforcing disciplines?
This is what Alexander Nakarada and I get into in this exciting TKFM Quick Hit - come join us!
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Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
EP110: "The Ryan Buhr Interview!"
The wait is over - I've finally found time for both Ryan and I to connect on a podcast and celebrate this full-stack programmer and great friend :)!
Ryan Buhr shares his journey from a childhood passion for science and programming to a successful career in software development, game design, and entrepreneurial ventures. He discusses the importance of iteration, modular design, and owning your code, along with insights into full stack development and the evolving landscape of technology.
Ryan Buhr and I explore the parallels between full-stack skills in business and software development, the ethical implications...
TKFM Quick Hits #41: "The Power of Selfless Service"
True service and selflessness is a journey many of us aspire to. It's not only relegated to people doing energy work; many other sectors and spaces can add value to the world through selfless acts.
Come join us for our discussion!
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Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
EP109: "Mike Aransky!"
Mike Aransky and I catch up on a TON of things in this episode. Employment. Movies. Video Games. The entertainment industry as a whole. The state of AI in all of it. And, the occasional insight into what's coming next.
Conversations with Mike are always lively - and by the way, Mike's 20 years in the digital content space is absolutely amazing and he'd be an asset to any organization looking for a content director / producer!
Some highlights:
YouTube's monetization requirements have doubled to 8,000 watch hours in 12 months, emphasizing quality and engagement.
Verti...
TKFM Quick Hits #40: "Unlocking Universal Energy"
How does one begin exploring Reiki and energy work / healing?
Jonas breaks it down super quick and easy in this 3-4 minute TKFM Quick Hits episode...won't you join the conversation?
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Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
EP108: "Tim & Tom Updates 8.15.26"
In this episode, Tom Seymour and I dig into our recent projects, film festival strategies, and what we've learned about independent filmmaking and marketing. We share practical tips for navigating the industry, making the most of film festivals, and staying creatively motivated. Tom and I also talk about our filmmaking journeys, our experiences on the festival circuit, and why perseverance and authenticity matter so much in creative work.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and recent updates from the hosts
01:51 Festival success with Video Dreams and upcoming projects
08:04 Opportunities in film festivals and international recognition
TKFM Quick Hits #39: "Top Underground Film of the Year!"
Can we consider "Video Dreams" to be one of the Top Underground Films of the Year?!
It's debatable, but we have a track record with this year's festival run that supports that statement very strongly. Come check out this mini-episode with Tom Seymour!
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Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
EP107: "The Tommy D Interview"
Tommy D has been battling an industry giant for the better part of 2 decades!
In this episode, Tommy shares his 16-year battle against Live Nation/Ticketmaster, highlighting the monopolistic control over the music and festival industry, and advocating for independent promoters and fair pricing for fans.
Come listen to this epic, crazy, and wild music industry story!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Tommy D's background in music
01:59 Tommy D's early days promoting underground house parties
03:57 Building a club empire and the rise of EDM
07:54 Themes, lighting, and sound i...
TKFM Quick Hits #38: "The Joy of Being on a Movie Set!"
After decades of being on both sides of independent filmmaking and distribution, Ron Bonk discusses how there's nothing like being on the set of a movie.
Come join us as we discuss the excitement and joy that is independent filmmaking!
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Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
EP106: "The Mark Winters Interview"
In this episode, Mark Winters shares his extraordinary journey from rocket scientist to passionate musician, exploring how his engineering background influences his music creation and performance. Mark has an amazing vibe - he took his analytical brain and rewrote the roadmap of his life to pursue music and musical expression. What an inspiration!
Discover insights on balancing technical skills with emotional expression, and learn how to build a sustainable music career through authenticity and community. And, most importantly, do it all with a positive vibe!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mark Winters' Journey
...
TKFM Quick Hits #37: "From Filmmaker to Distributor!"
Ron Bonk started off making independent films. Very early in his career, he started his own distribution company, SRS Cinemas LLC, to distribute his independent films. Shortly thereafter, people started asking if they could distribute with him - and it's been over 3 decades now!
Ron's truly a pioneer, and an advocate for independent movie makers everywhere - won't you join the conversation?
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https://www...
EP105: "Phil Hall!"
In this episode, Phil shares his fascinating journey through journalism, film critique, and acting, highlighting how serendipity and passion shaped his diverse career. We explore the evolution of media, the challenges of filmmaking, and the importance of adaptability in creative pursuits.
Key Topics
Phil's early interest in journalism and movies
His experience with Pace University and college journalism
Transition from journalism to film critique and book writing
Involvement with Wired magazine and early internet media
Webcasting history and the Walls of Sand project
Transition from media to public r...
TKFM Quick Hits #36: "The Resurgence of Physical Media"
Physical media IS DEAD.
You'd think with the popularity and market saturation of streaming services physical media is gone, but is it, truly?
Not according to Ron Bonk, producer and president of SRS Cinema LLC. In Ron's view, physical distribution is alive and well, and still a strong component in the distribution game that is independent film promotion.
Come check out the discussion!
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https://www...
EP104: "Amani Roberts Interview!"
Join me this week for my exciting interview with Amani Roberts!
In this episode, Amani Roberts shares his journey from growing up in DC to becoming a DJ, music business professor, and author. He discusses his innovative programs that use music to teach leadership, resilience, and creativity, as well as his insights on branding, marketing, and the future of music industry careers.
Amani and his work can all be explored at amaniexperience.com !
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and background of Amani Roberts
01:17 Amani's early influences and start in music
02:22 T...
TKFM Quick Hits #35: "The Freedom of Royalty-Free Music"
Today on TKFM Quick Hits, Alexander Nakarada and I discuss the absolute freedom associated with being royalty-free composers.
No agenda, no one twisting our creative visions. Just us creating the tracks that scream who we are and letting our fans decide which ones to run with.
I love making music on my own terms, and so does Alexander! Come join the conversation...
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ht...
EP103: "Tim & Top Updates!"
This week, Tom Seymour & I explore the intricacies of independent filmmaking, music production, and the influence of advertising and media on society. Together we share insights on festival circuits, project development, and the evolving landscape of media distribution.
Also...new podcast website! TKFMPodcast.com ! And...rekindled music productivity on the horizon.
Stay tuned...and check out the show :)
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:36 Thematic Focus and Creative Challenges
01:33 Project Management and Creative Exploration
02:58 The Evolution of Documentary and Film Editing
04:26 Current Music Projects and Creative Pac...
TKFM Quick Hits #34: "Revisiting Old Music Projects with Alexander!"
On this week's TKFM Quick Hit, Alexander Nakarada and I discuss reaching back into the back catalog of ideas to find inspiration, catalyze creativity, or just to be productive! Sometimes the greatest gem of an idea is sitting, right there, in a folder on your hard drive that you haven't opened for months.
As of today (6/21/26) I've been doing JUST THIS - revisiting over 200 projects, getting organized, and ready for 3rd and 4th quarter 2026 to see just how many of these I can bring across the finish line.
New year, new 1,000 track goal, new inspirations :)
EP102: "Katie McGrath!"
In this episode, I have the wonderful privilege of interviewing Katie McGrath, Yin Yoga practioner!
Katie McGraw shares her expertise on Yin Yoga, its benefits, training, and how it can improve flexibility, mindfulness, and overall well-being. Perfect for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.
Come join the conversation!
Key Topics
What is Yin Yoga and its physical benefits
Training and certification in Yin Yoga
Mind challenges in Yin Yoga and how to overcome them
Breathwork and relaxation techniques in Yin Yoga
Adapting Yin Yoga for specific b...
TKFM Quick Hits #33: "From Journalism to PR"
Join me and Phil Hall as we discuss his career evolution from journalism to PR in today's TKFM Quick Hit!
Follow me for more royalty free music:
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https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063945225723
https://www.patreon.com/timkulig
https://www.instagram.com/timkuligfreemusic/
Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
EP101: "The Jeff Mielcarz Interview!"
Jeff...how are ya!?
Yup - Jeff Mielcarz is like no other human being I've ever met, and I'm glad. Spanning over 40 years, Jeff is one of my oldest friends and a prolific and enigmatic individual that shines in any aspect of life he focuses on*. (*he'd argue that his academic endeavors in his early 20s do NOT reflect this statement!)
Drummer. Marketer. Weather Man. DJ. Event Management. The dude does it all!
We talk about LITERALLY everything in this episode, and we're all over the map. A great nostalgic retrospective, Jeff is just so...
EP100: "The 100th Episode!"
Can you believe it!? 100 episodes of The Tim Kulig Free Music Podcast! Woo-hoo!
"Tim Kulig celebrates his 100th episode milestone, reflecting on his music journey, podcast growth, and future plans. He shares insights on productivity, content strategy, and expanding his brand."
Key Topics
Milestone celebration and reflection
Music production and prolific output
Podcast growth and audience engagement
Content organization and genre-specific channels
Future plans for website and product offerings
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating the Hundredth Episode
02:47 Reflecting on the Music Journ...
TKFM Quick Hits #32: "Jonas on the Path to Enlightenment"
In this Quick Hits segment, Jonas and I discuss The Path to Enlightenment, Chakras, and Reiki and meditative practices. We delve into some heady discussion about our place in this world, the spiritual and dogmatic principles that drive our beliefs, and our overarching place in this enormous and exciting universe we call home!
Come join us...
Follow me for more royalty free music:
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Ti...
EP099: "P.M. Nelson Interview"
This week, filmmaker P.M. Nelson shares his journey from self-taught actor to award-winning director and producer. Discover insights on building a career in filmmaking, the importance of resourcefulness, and tips for aspiring creators to turn their passion into reality.
Key Topics
Self-taught filmmaking journey
Resourcefulness and networking in film
Transition from shorts to feature films
Film festival strategy and distribution
Creative process and storytelling in filmmaking
Chapters
00:00 The Name Behind the Moniker
02:57 Journey into Filmmaking
06:07 Transitioning to Full-Time Filmmaking
09:04 Th...
TKFM Quick Hits #31: "Tim & Tom Talk Festival Run - Video Dreams"
In this Quick Hits episode, Tom & I update on the progress of the "Video Dreams" festival run, and some of the official selections we were fortunate to obtain in the first quarter of 2026!
Exciting updates...
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Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
EP098: "Tim & Tom Updates"
In this episode, Tom Seymour & I discuss our recent projects, film festival experiences, and insights into the world of independent filmmaking and distribution. We share valuable tips on maximizing royalties, navigating film festivals, and the art of autographs.
Tom Seymour & I explore the evolution of media quality, the impact of censorship, and the tactics used in advertising and entertainment. In addition, we discuss archival footage, the history of TV ratings, and the influence of marketing strategies on consumer perceptions, offering insights into media history and cultural shifts.
Key Topics
Royalties and ne...
TKFM Quick Hits #30: "Content ID Claim vs. Copyright Strike on YouTube"
This TKFM Quick Hit delves into part of an interview I had with Damian of Frequency Digital...
We were discussing the YouTube space, specifically the difference between a Content ID Copyright Claim vs. a YouTube platform Copyright Strike, and the vast difference between the two. The discussion helps to demystify and calm the anxieties for content creators new and old about Content ID and how it affects channels.
Come join us for this important discussion!
Follow me for more royalty free music:
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https://www.fa...
EP097: "Alessia of Quantumtainment"
Today, I got to interview Alessia of Quantumtainment!
In our discussion, Alessia shares her journey into manifestation, the importance of nervous system regulation, and practical approaches to aligning with your higher self. Discover how foundational belief changes and self-awareness can transform your manifestation process.
Key Topics
Nervous system regulation and manifestation
The role of belief systems in manifesting
Practical steps to align with your higher self
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:24 Manifestation and the Nervous System
04:29 Foundational Changes for Manifestation
10:08 The Ca...
TKFM Quick Hits #29: "Arc Raiders: a Self Discovery"
Anyone who knows me, even on a cursory level, knows that I very much enjoy video games. They have been a part of my life since the Atari 2600.
Recently, Tom & I discovered Arc Raiders, an extraction shooter with PVE and PVP elements that keeps you guessing and, more importantly, is an exercise in discovery.
Unlike other games, the rules and the objectives aren't clearly defined. You feel like you're in a post-apocalyptic world of survival and discovery...and deception. Because your fellow raiders aren't always so altruistic topside.
Check out our talk!
<...
TKFM Quick Hits #28b: "Universal Energy!"
This one's a GREAT Quick Hit to finish out your week - talking about Universal Energy with Jonas!
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Tim Kulig \ timkulig.com
EP096: "Mark Savant Media"
Mark Savant shares his journey from podcast production to leveraging AI for business growth. Discover practical tips on integrating AI tools, niching strategies, and building scalable side projects to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Key topics
AI integration in business
Niching and targeting specific markets
Building scalable side projects
Action items
Start experimenting with AI tools today to understand their capabilities.
Identify a niche market and tailor AI solutions to that segment.
Build a cohort of peers to test...
TKFM Quick Hits #28: "R.I.P. James Van Der Beek"
I watched Dawson's Creek.
Yes, I said it. Young adult TV drama at its best.
...and James Van Der Beek was an icon of the show. His recent lost battle with cancer just reminds me of how short life is, how quickly we age and weaken, and just how much we should embrace each moment like it's our last.
Because you just don't know how long you've got - get out there and get after your dreams!
Follow me for more royalty free music:
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<...TKFM Quick Hits #27: "YouTubers: The New Movie Stars"
YouTuber Markiplier took $3M and his almost 40M subscribers and showed the world that you can make $50M on a $3M movie by engaging the support of your follower base.
What does this mean for the future of movie making, studios, and independent film?
Social media has become the center point for pretty much ALL advertising and promoting, even live shopping creeping into your TikTok feeds. Why not the new frontier for feature-length movie making as well?
Eric Schrader and I discuss this, Mr. Beast's Amazon show, and other stuff in this week's TKFM...
EP095: "Driving Updates!"
This week is what the TV sitcom industry calls a "Bottle Episode" - except instead of just 1 room you'll be hanging out w/me in the car!
Just a bit of catch up on all things Tim Kulig Free Music. It's been a productive year in a lot of ways so far, but mostly behind the scenes. Although I've released more tracks for use throughout the 1st quarter, I've only produced about a dozen tracks for the 2026 production year so far.
It's made me feel like I'm in a bit of a rut next to the...
TKFM Quick Hits #26: "Sometimes, Good Enough is Enough"
When making art, we sometimes fall into these paralysis of analysis rabbit holes, seemingly lost in rewrites, edits, and self-doubt about the final product. It's times like these that you have to finalize a project to the best of your ability, call it "good enough", and move on to the next thing.
Turns out, the public will let you know what they like and don't like. If you're having fun making it and it resonates with you, don't overthink it. Just make art and share it!
Check out John Brennan here: https://johnbrennan.bandcamp.com/musi...
EP094: "The John Brennan Interview!"
This week, I had the absolute privilege an pleasure to interview and discuss music with the one and only John Brennan!
Join us for an in-depth conversation with John Brennan, a versatile music creator and filmmaker, as he shares his journey from aspiring screenwriter to successful composer for TV and movies. Discover his creative process, tools, genre experiments, and insights on artistic experimentation and audience connection.
Key topics
Music creation and genre experimentation
Tools and process in music production
Journey from aspiring filmmaker to professional composer Audio mastering techniques an...
TKFM Quick Hits #25: "Evolution of Voice Actors in Animation"
One thing that drove me nuts over the years was the removal / replacement of key actors or acting voices in beloved TV shows or series. The infamous replacement of Bo & Luke Duke in The Dukes of Hazard. The genie's voice in Disney's Aladdin direct-to-video versions NOT being Robin Williams.
However, there are times when strict adherence to detail and a consideration of the sonic footprint the fans and viewers have come to know and love have really shown that the producers do care about the final product. Kelly and I discuss some examples of this, why as cultu...
EP093: "Tim & Tom - April '26 Updates"
This week, join Tom Seymour & me for an in-depth conversation about independent filmmaking, festival strategies, and music production. Discover insights on film festival selection, equipment choices, and the evolving landscape of music and video creation.
Chapters
00:00 Balancing Life and Creativity
02:23 The Challenges of Filmmaking
05:11 Technological Evolution in Filmmaking
07:31 The Art of Film Preservation
10:13 Navigating Film Festivals
17:45 The Journey of Independent Filmmaking
25:55 Navigating Film Festival Dynamics
32:51 The Independent Film Movement
37:52 Creative Processes in Music Production
47:04 Exploring Nostalgia in Music and Film
Ke...
TKFM Quick Hits #24: "From Archeology to Audio Books: An Accidental Journey"
Chris Douyard has explored varying jobs and disciplines over the time I've known him. One of the most fascinating arcs for him, for me, has been seeing him move through academia and into voiceover work with audio books. Little did I know in interviewing Chris a few months back that this arc is an even LARGER story, with origins for Chris way back in his early 20s.
It's funny how we take these journeys in our careers and lives, and interests wax and wane and find us again - if we haven't fully experienced them. Being open and...
