Beginner Guitar Academy
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291 - Fear of Playing in a Guitar Shop (And Why Nobody Is Judging You)

In this episode, Paul Andrews addresses a challenge that nearly every guitar player faces but rarely talks about: the fear of playing in a guitar shop. Many beginners (and even experienced players) feel anxious about trying out guitars in front of staff and other customers, worrying that they’re being judged for their skill level. Paul breaks down why this fear is common, explains the "spotlight effect," and shares tips to help you walk into any guitar shop with confidence and excitement. Key To

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291 - Fear of Playing in a Guitar Shop (And Why Nobody Is Judging You)
291
June 19, 2026

291 - Fear of Playing in a Guitar Shop (And Why Nobody Is Judging You)

In this episode, Paul Andrews addresses a challenge that nearly every guitar player faces but rarely talks about: the fear of playing in a guitar shop. Many beginners (and even experienced players) feel anxious about trying out guitars in front of staff and other customers, worrying that they’re being judged for their skill level. Paul breaks down why this fear is common, explains the "spotlight effect," and shares tips to help you walk into any guitar shop with confidence and excitement. Key To
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290 - From Starting Over to Becoming a BGA Graduate – Antony Box's Story
290
June 13, 2026

290 - From Starting Over to Becoming a BGA Graduate – Antony Box's Story

In this special episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy Podcast, I'm joined by Antony Box, who has just become the third person ever to complete all five levels of Beginner Guitar Academy. What's particularly inspiring about Antony's journey is that he didn't join BGA as a complete beginner. After playing guitar for several years, he realised he had developed some intermediate skills without building a strong foundation. Rather than continuing with gaps in his knowledge, he decided to go back to
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289 – You Can't Rely on Motivation Alone
289
June 7, 2026

289 – You Can't Rely on Motivation Alone

Key Topics Covered The Motivation Rollercoaster Paul Andrews addresses a common challenge among guitar players: losing motivation to practice. Emphasizes that all guitarists—whether beginner, intermediate, or advanced—go through phases of high and low motivation. Losing motivation is normal and does not mean you’re failing, lazy, or untalented—it just means you’re human. The Problem with Relying on Motivation Motivation is emotional and temporary, leading to inconsistent practice and results if
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288 - The Most Inspiring Music Films Every Guitarist Should Watch
288
May 28, 2026

288 - The Most Inspiring Music Films Every Guitarist Should Watch

In this episode, Paul Andrews wraps up "Movie May" by sharing a handpicked list of the most inspiring music films every guitarist should watch. He delves into the lessons musicians and guitarists can learn from each movie—covering topics such as finding inspiration, balancing discipline with enjoyment, embracing simplicity, building musical identity, and keeping perspective. Whether you're feeling stuck in your progress or just need a spark of motivation, these films promise to reignite your pas
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287 - 5 Classic Movie Guitar Scenes
287
May 22, 2026

287 - 5 Classic Movie Guitar Scenes

Welcome to the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast! This week’s episode is a celebration of the greatest guitar movie scenes in honour of Movie May. Paul shares iconic film moments that have inspired countless players to pick up the guitar, along with practical lessons from each scene for your own playing and performance confidence. Episode Highlights 🎬 Movie May Challenge Record any riff, chord progression, or song and post it in the Beginner Guitar Academy community in May. Each entry is entered i
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286 - How To Start Recording Yourself As A Guitarist
286
May 15, 2026

286 - How To Start Recording Yourself As A Guitarist

In this episode, Paul Andrews breaks down the essential steps for beginner guitarists to start recording themselves. He addresses common fears, explains why self-recording is one of the best ways to improve, and shares low-cost and easy ways to get started. Whether you’re looking to track your progress or participate in Beginner Guitar Academy’s Movie May challenge, this episode is packed with actionable advice and encouragement. Key Topics Covered 1. Why Recording Yourself Matters Recording act
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Recent Blog Posts

How to Jam Musically Using Just One Scale (Even If You Feel Stuck)
Jan. 10, 2026

How to Jam Musically Using Just One Scale (Even If You Feel Stuck)

If you’ve ever thought…“I know the scale… so why doesn’t this sound like music?”…you’re not alone.This is one of the most common frustrations guitarists have, and it has nothing to do with…
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The Basic 8 Guitar Chords Every Beginner Should Know
Nov. 15, 2025

The Basic 8 Guitar Chords Every Beginner Should Know

Are you just starting your guitar journey and wondering which chords you absolutely need to know? This week’s episode of the Beginner Guitar Academy podcast with Paul Andrews is your perfect guide!He breaks down the “Basic Eight&rdqu…
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Level Up Your Guitar Skills: Mastering the C to G Chord Change
Oct. 17, 2025

Level Up Your Guitar Skills: Mastering the C to G Chord Change

Are you struggling to switch smoothly between the C and G chords? If so, you’re not alone—this iconic chord change trips up guitar beginners everywhere and can feel like a real roadblock on your musical journey. In Episode 256 of the B…
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Reviews

Best and most interactive online guitar lessons!!

"I can’t say enough at how easy the lessons are. I’m now on my second month taking the online course and have learned so much. Stop waisting you’re time on YouTube trying to pause and play random less…"

Walt35 | March 15, 2021

Mr.

"Paul is such an incredible teacher! I love the way he takes his time and explains everything thouroghly. Can't wiat to hear more episodes!"

Don Parkhurst | July 3, 2019

Exceptional Find

"If you’re looking for a beginning or restarting point for learning to play the guitar - this is it! I started with Paul’s podcast, checked out his Amazon book, and joined his academy online. What’s g…"

Ski_22 | Sept. 9, 2021

The Best!

"THE single best guitar podcast available. Short and to the point, yet packed with useful information."

Mark Z | Oct. 17, 2021

Paul is awesome!

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️I can’t recommend Beginner Guitar Academy enough! Paul is such an amazing teacher—his approach makes learning the guitar fun, easy to follow, and truly engaging. He breaks things down in …"

Joinaaronst | Feb. 24, 2025
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