What I’m Building in 2026

The podcast returns to its own channel with a 2026 reset: a clearer lane for each part of my output so the main YouTube channel can stay focused on harmony/theory-based lessons, while the podcast and live/performance content live on their own separate channels. I outline six recording projects I'm aiming to track across the year, share a packed touring schedule (US, Japan, Europe, Asia), and talk through a more realistic approach to tour gear—from compact boards to MIDI control, flight cases, and what I actually use on gigs.

In this episode

Why the podcast is back on the podcast-dedicated YouTube channel

The 3-lane restructure for 2026:

Main channel = harmony/bass lesson content

Podcast channel = long-form conversation + gear talk

Clips channel = live performance, studio, behind-the-scenes

The “why” behind the shift: reduce stress, increase clarity, serve each audience better

The six album/projects Janek is planning to track in 2026

Touring: how the volume is increasing in 2026 and what that means with family life

A candid look at saying “yes” vs “no” as a working musician, and how that advice changes by age/career stage

Gear logistics: what’s realistic to fly with, compact boards, and why “small but powerful” wins on the road

Compact rig idea: Walrus Mantle + HX Stomp

Testing rigs on warm-up gigs before international runs

New Gator / Vertex case system and a compact board build plan

MIDI control with a Morningstar MC4

The honest truth: on many gigs, only a fraction of the pedalboard gets used

How the harmony/triads videos unexpectedly clicked, and why that success triggered the restructure

The role of Substack: the hub where people can choose what to watch/listen to

Links Mentioned in the Episode

- Main Channel Triad Video 0 and Triad Video 1

- Clips Channel

- Podcast Channel

- SBL MIchael Jackson Cover