This is a podcast for classical musicians who want to practice smarter, perform better, and win auditions. Whether you're prepping for your first big audition, stuck in a practice rut, or trying to figure out why you keep choking when it counts — this show is for you. I'm Christopher Still, Second Trumpet of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. I went through over 40 auditions before I won my job, so I know what it's like to fail, adjust, and finally figure out what actually moves the needle. Now I coach musicians through the same gauntlet: building a practice system that works, performing under pressure, and navigating auditions without losing your mind. You'll hear from conductors, committee members, personal managers, and coaches who've seen it all — plus solo episodes where I cut through the noise and tell you what really matters when the stakes are high. No motivational garbage. No theory without application. Just honest, practical insight from someone who's been on both sides of the screen. Want more? Join the Audition Accelerator, my 16-week intensive coaching program, or become part of HPAC (Honesty Pill Accelerator Community) — a space for musicians who are serious about growth and done with spinning their wheels. Proudly sponsored by the Yamaha Corporation of America. Welcome to the Honesty Pill Podcast.