How To Work Smarter, Not Harder | 52 Cues Podcast 2025, Week 1

In this episode, I’m sharing six practical strategies to help you streamline your workflow, save time, and stay creative – from reusing sounds and organizing your library to simplifying your mix and using reference cues for structure. Plus, I review Timothy Ackermann's cyberpunk cue, "Circuit Breaker!"

00:00 - Intro & welcome
04:03 - "The Ego Has Landed"
07:05 - Main Topic: How To Work Smarter, Not Harder
08:06 - #1: Reuse sounds from older cues
09:38 - #2: Stop searching for the perfect sound
11:38 - #3: Organize your sound library and presets
13:19 - #4: Using templates
18:23 - #5: Less is more
22:10 - #6: Use reference cues for form
26:08 - How to join the 52 Cues community
27:30 - This week's cue review: "Circuit Breaker" by Timothy Ackermann
38:59 - Outro

Do you want to have your cue reviewed on the podcast? Click here to submit your cue for consideration: https://my.52cues.com/posts/74389385
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Dave's Studio/Podcasting Gear

Microphone
• Electro-Voice RE320 Large Diaphragm Dynamic Vocal Microphone - https://amzn.to/3RsRsAG
• Audio-Technica Condenser Microphone (AT8035) - https://amzn.to/3nXT487
• Samson C02 Pencil Condenser Microphones - https://amzn.to/3cdzaDd

Midi Controllers
• Alesis Recital – 88 Key Digital Piano Keyboard - https://amzn.to/3PkyKJA
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 Controller Keyboard - https://amzn.to/3uHZHPK
• Akai Professional MPD18 Compact Pad Controller - https://amzn.to/3RsSixk

Audio Interface
• Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 3rd Gen - https://amzn.to/3IBFCQz

Headphones
• Sony MDR MVI Open Back Reference Monitor Headphones - https://amzn.to/3RO14bu
• Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone - https://amzn.to/3yvD7us

Input Devices
• Elgato Stream Deck – Studio Controller - https://amzn.to/3uNej05
• Logitech G600 MMO Mouse – https://amzn.to/3hPxaEn

Camera
• Canon EOS M200 Compact Mirrorless Digital Camera - https://amzn.to/3IySsiF
• Canon EF-M 22mm f2 STM Compact System Lens - https://amzn.to/3PqXfos

Lights
• Novostella 2 Pack 20W Smart LED Flood Lights - https://amzn.to/3AR72QH
• GIJUANRING Photography Lighting LED Studio Light - https://amzn.to/3z0I402

Note: Links posted here may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!