Why Making It Big Isn’t Enough: Jon Schmidt of The Piano Guys on True Success | SMP 81 - Successful Musicians | Lyssna här

What if success isn’t about fame, numbers, or perfection—but about serving, creating, and trusting the process?

From selling cassette tapes at small school fundraisers to reaching billions of views with The Piano Guys, Jon Schmidt shares a deeply personal journey of faith, persistence, and purpose.

This conversation goes beyond music. It uncovers the real story behind “overnight success,” the power of saying yes to small opportunities, and why some of the biggest breakthroughs come from moments that don’t go as planned.

There’s honesty here about the industry, the creative process, and even the illusion behind recording perfection. But more than anything, this episode is a reminder that impact isn’t measured in millions—it’s measured in meaning.

To read the complete transcript and watch the podcast video, visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠episode blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠

What You’ll Learn

- Why success should be defined by impact, not recognition

- How small opportunities can lead to major breakthroughs

- What “fake it till you make it” really means in practice

- The importance of collaboration and surrounding yourself with the right people

- Why perfection in recording is often an illusion—and how to approach it

- How setbacks can redirect your path toward something better

- The role of faith and purpose in sustaining a long-term creative career

- Why focusing on serving others can transform your work and fulfillment

Topics Covered in This Episode

- Early musical development and discipline through piano