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296 — You’re Always Practising Guitar… But Do You Ever Play?

Many beginner guitarists find themselves in a cycle of practice without ever truly “playing” or “exploring” the instrument for enjoyment.

This week, Paul addresses a common challenge: how dedicated learners often focus exclusively on structured practice and neglect simply playing songs or exploring the guitar creatively.

Inspired by a community discussion led by member Craig, the episode explores why this happens, its drawbacks, and actionable ways to find a healthier, more enjoyable balance.

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Recent Episodes

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296 — You’re Always Practising Guitar… But Do You Ever Play?
296
July 25, 2026

296 — You’re Always Practising Guitar… But Do You Ever Play?

Many beginner guitarists find themselves in a cycle of practice without ever truly “playing” or “exploring” the instrument for enjoyment. This week, Paul addresses a common challenge: how dedicated learners often focus exclusively on structured practice and neglect simply playing songs or exploring the guitar creatively. Inspired by a community discussion led by member Craig, the episode explores why this happens, its drawbacks, and actionable ways to find a healthier, more enjoyable balance.
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295 - Why Your Chord Changes Are Slow (And How to Fix Them)
295
July 18, 2026

295 - Why Your Chord Changes Are Slow (And How to Fix Them)

This week's podcast focused on one of the most common frustrations for beginner guitarists: slow chord changes. We explored why chord transitions often plateau your progress and, most importantly, offered practical strategies to fix the problem. Key Topics & Takeaways Why Chord Changes Can Plateau Your Progress Slow chord changes can halt your learning momentum. This episode explores why this happens and reassures listeners that it rarely comes down to lack of talent—often, it’s about how you
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294 - How to Overcome Guitar Plateaus and Keep Improving
294
July 10, 2026

294 - How to Overcome Guitar Plateaus and Keep Improving

In this episode, Paul Andrews dives into a common struggle for guitarists at every stage: hitting a plateau. If you've felt stuck despite consistent practice, you're not alone! Paul Andrews explores why plateaus occur, why they're normal, and, most importantly, how you can break through them and keep moving forward in your guitar journey. Key Topics What is a plateau and why does it happen? Seven main reasons guitarists plateau Five practical steps to break through stagnation The importance
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293 - The 7 Biggest Guitar Practice Mistakes Adults Make
293
July 5, 2026

293 - The 7 Biggest Guitar Practice Mistakes Adults Make

Have you ever finished a practice session and wondered if you'd actually improved? You're not alone. After teaching thousands of adult guitarists over the past 20 years, I've discovered that the people who make the fastest progress aren't necessarily the most talented or the ones who practise the longest. They simply know how to practise more effectively. In this episode, I share the 7 biggest guitar practice mistakes I see adult learners make time and time again, and, more importantly, how y
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292 - Rolling Stone's 5 Greatest Guitar Solos of All Time… Do They Deserve Their Place?
292
June 26, 2026

292 - Rolling Stone's 5 Greatest Guitar Solos of All Time… Do They Deserve Their Place?

In this episode, Paul Andrews dives into Rolling Stone Magazine’s recently released list of the 100 greatest guitar solos of all time. Guitarists everywhere are debating the rankings, so Paul Andrews breaks down the top five solos, highlighting what makes each one so exceptional, what techniques to listen for, and key lessons you can take into your own playing. Beginner Guitar Academy News Annual Survey Beginner Guitar Academy members: Complete the annual survey by Sunday (28th June) for your
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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.
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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 talent or intelligence. It happens because most p…
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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” — those foundat…
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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 Beginner Guit…
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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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