Welcome to my very special interview series featuring great independent artists (and some legends, too!)
Not Your Ordinary Music Podcast
Dean Olson, a passionate songwriter and podcaster, embodies the spirit of encouragement and hope for aspiring musicians. Through his platform, “Strongwriter On the Radio,” Dean aims to uplift songwriters of all backgrounds, helping them navigate the often tumultuous journey of pursuing their dreams. His tagline, “Helping Songwriters Become Musically Fit,” captures his mission to infuse creativity with resilience.
Understanding that many songwriters face emotional challenges and setbacks, Dean provides a supportive environment where they can gain strength and inspiration. He offers practical songwriting tips alongside uplifting articles and engaging interviews with music industry veterans. By sharing stories from well-known artists like Richard M. Sherman, Thomas Dolby and Toni Tennille, as well as producers and independent musicians, Dean fosters a sense of community among creators.
Since launching his radio show in 2014 and expanding into podcasting in 2019, Dean has reached millions worldwide. His dedication to empowering others is evident in every episode as he encourages listeners to embrace their unique voices. With the help of Raven Blair Glover, a successful media entrepreneur, Dean has transformed his lifelong dream into a reality.
Through faith, hope, and encouragement, Dean Olson continues to inspire songwriters to overcome obstacles and thrive creatively. His commitment to sharing knowledge not only helps individuals grow musically but also strengthens their spirits on the path to success. For those seeking guidance in their artistic journey, Dean is truly a beacon of light in the music world.
“So, what happens on your show / podcast?”
Some great positive conversation and stories to go with the music. I do my best to make the show an art form just as any musical artist would to his or her project. Each episode of my series is recorded and produced entirely by myself. This is not meant as a brag, but rather an attempt to inform you that I approach this unique craft with a great deal of love and care.
Sample Episodes
StrongWriter On The Radio – Episode 94 “TONI TENNILLE – Read That To Me Once Again” (AUDIO PODCAST)
The one and only TONI TENNILLE returns to the program for another conversation regarding her 2016 book ‘Toni Tennille: A Memoir’ co-authored with her niece, Caroline Tennille St. Clair, This time Toni and I discuss the audiobook version, which was recorded in her own voice. [Part 2 of 2] Dean Olson StrongWriter On the Radio...
StrongWriter On the Radio – Episode 65 “RICHARD SHERMAN – Good Songwriters Have Got To Expect Curves”
There’s a great big beautiful tomorrow for my very special guest Richard M. Sherman! Having just turned 87 years old at the time of our interview, this living songwriting legend shows no slowing of his pace, and he continues to look at the creative road in front of him. Richard’s sanguine personality took over the...
StrongWriter On the Radio – Episode 66 “RICHARD SHERMAN – Serenading the Kiss Goodnight For Walt Disney”
I certainly hope you enjoyed the first part of my series, when I talked to songwriting legend Richard M. Sherman. In this episode, Mr. Sherman and I discussed how he and his brother Robert wrote songs together, and he gave me insight on what makes a great song. Richard also shared the story behind the...
StrongWriter – Episode 231 “CINDY ALEXANDER – Music Is The Key To My Happiness”
In today’s episode, I feature a guest who not only is a talented songwriter, but a woman I consider a friend. Of all the guests that I have interviewed over the years, CINDY ALEXANDER is definitely one who stands above the crowd… if, for no other reason, you can really get the sense that she...
StrongWriter – Episode 224 “JACK TEMPCHIN – Rewriting The Fate Of The Gingerbread Man”
Today’s episode is fun all around, because I got to feature the return of legendary songwriter JACK TEMPCHIN, this time in living color. He is one of those musical artists who epitomizes the Southern California sound that so many of us baby boomers took comfort in, like a cool breeze coming off the Pacific Ocean....
StrongWriter On the Radio – Episode 57 “SHELLY PEIKEN – What A Girl Writes” (AUDIO PODCAST)
“I wanna thank you, Shelly Peiken, for giving me some great insight on songwriting.” This is what I said to my very special guest after shaking off the nervousness of interviewing a truly creative professional songwriter. As you will sense from the conversation, Shelly has a warm and calm demeanor, and definitely has a passion...
StrongWriter On The Radio – Episode 58 “SHELLY PEIKEN – Conversations With A Serial Songwriter” (AUDIO PODCAST)
Today, I wrap up my conversation with the incredible Shelly Peiken! If you missed the first half of our talk, you can listen to it right here. We continued the conversation as Shelly and I discussed her forthcoming book, Confessions Of a Serial Songwriter. I asked her about some of her collaborative relationships and how...
“Helping Songwriters Become Musically Fit”
This tagline should help describe my intentions. Songwriters of all stripes can be expressive, artistic, and emotional, to name just a few adjectives.
Whether they are confident or not, songwriters can experience many gloomy or stormy conditions on the road to their dreams. Too often, these conditions and setbacks can weaken one’s spirit. I want to help you be strong! I want you to be a StrongWriter!
I plan to provide you with helpful song tips and advice, but to also give you uplifting positive articles, videos, and interviews.












StrongWriter On The Radio – Episode 93 “TONI TENNILLE – Read That To Me One More Time” (AUDIO PODCAST)
The one and only TONI TENNILLE returns to the program for another conversation regarding her 2016 book ‘Toni Tennille: A Memoir’ co-authored with her niece, Caroline Tennille St. Clair, This time Toni and I discuss the audiobook version, which was recorded in her own voice. [Part 1 of 2] Dean Olson StrongWriter On the Radio...