
EPISODE
21
Episode 21 - Audio Knuckle Busters Part Two
EPISODE LINKS.
SHOW NOTES.
In this episode of McFarland Minutes, the conversation continues with Tim Kimsey, an esteemed figure in audio engineering and sound design. Tim shares his journey from recording albums in Southern California to diving into sound design and the importance of teamwork in professional production settings. The discussion covers the significance of having a reliable team, dealing with live sound pressures, balancing work and personal life, and the invaluable lessons learned from various projects, including a noteworthy collaboration with Colonel Allen West. Tune in for deep insights into the creative process, mentorship, and leadership in the creative industry.
00:00 Introduction to McFarland Minutes
00:34 Recap of Previous Episode with Tim Kimsey
01:12 Tim Kimsey’s Journey into Sound Design
05:37 The Importance of Teamwork in Production
10:06 Challenges and Lessons in Live Production
13:15 The Colorado Christian University Project
21:59 Overcoming Technical Difficulties
26:18 The Importance of Audio in Live Performances
27:02 Handling Audio Issues During Live Events
28:02 Challenges in Prerecorded Interviews
29:27 The Role of Audio Engineers in Church Services
30:40 Dealing with External Factors in Outdoor Recordings
34:44 Balancing Work and Personal Life
35:36 The Human Element in Audio Production
47:45 The Value of Teamwork in Productions
50:54 Concluding Thoughts and Future Projects
ABOUT THIS EPISODE.
Welcome to another insightful edition of our podcast wrap-up, where we dive deeper into the world of creative production and the significance of teamwork. In Episode 21 of McFarland Minutes, Natalie McFarland and Tim Kimsey reflect on the intricacies and challenges of production, sharing invaluable lessons learned through their experiences in sound design, live audio, and film production.
The journey of creating a successful production is complex, and more often than not, it requires more than just individual effort. Natalie opens the conversation by emphasizing the importance of teamwork. She highlights how the synergy between the team members at McFarland Productions, Audio Knuckle Busters, and their partners, is essential in telling stories that inspire both creators and audiences alike. It’s a process that involves not only technical skills but also mutual understanding and shared vision.
Tim Kimsey shares his perspective on the unique challenges of sound design and how vital it is to have a team that can anticipate and solve problems. He recounts experiences where his team brought ideas together seamlessly, underscoring that producing great audio is not just about skill but also about maintaining a balance and being open to collaboration.
Tim reflects on his career journey, shedding light on how his passion for sound has driven him and how mentorship has played a crucial role. One pivotal moment was realizing that true wealth in their field doesn’t come down to finances but the people they meet and the experiences they share. Both Natalie and Timothy agree that these human connections elevate their work, transcending any monetary value. A key takeaway from their discussions is the power of an affirmative team. Natalie fondly remembers instances where having someone else’s input saved the day and highlighted how this collaborative spirit helps the team not only deliver high-quality content but also handle unforeseen hurdles with grace.
In the script, Natalie shares anecdotes that illustrate the practical challenges of on-site and live audio production. From dealing with unexpected technical difficulties to managing the nuances of audio capture amid distractions, these real-world examples show the importance of teamwork and adaptability in high-pressure situations.
Timothy delves into his passion for audio, noting the intricate dance between ensuring technical precision and nurturing personal connections. He offers wisdom about the importance of balancing work with life, urging fellow creatives to remain grounded in what truly matters.
In wrapping up the episode, Natalie and Tim express gratitude for their team and the collaborative opportunities they’ve had. They stress that great production is about more than just getting the job done; it’s about storytelling, shared experiences, and creating something meaningful together. The conversation closes with an appreciation for each project’s unique challenges, recognizing that every endeavor brings its own growth opportunities. Whether it’s the thrill of a live production or the detailed work of post-production, the shared goal of excellence continues to drive their passion and commitment.
In conclusion, whether you’re a seasoned production professional or a curious listener seeking to understand the behind-the-scenes magic, this episode of McFarland Minutes offers insights that remind us all of the critical role teamwork plays in bringing creative visions to fruition. It’s a testament to the idea that while individual talent is essential, it’s the collaboration that truly sets successful productions apart.
IN THIS EPISODE.

Tim Kimsey
Audio Knuckle Busters
Tim Kimsey Bio:
45 years in the recording industry
12 Gold records (RIAA certified)
6 platinum records (RIAA certified)
1 Grammy nomination for “Best Engineered” album (Kirk Franklin – NU Nation) 1998
1 Grammy – NU Nation (Kirk Franklin) “Best Gospel Album” 1998 1979-1986 Buffalo Sound Studios (Ft. Worth, Texas)
1981- 1986 Chief Engineer Buffalo Sound Studios
1986 – 1989 Dallas Sound Lab – Chief Engineer
1989 to present – Independent recording engineer for various record labels and independent projects. (Film & Post Audio)
Over 40 years experience in live sound reinforcement as FOH mixer, monitor engineer including Sundance Square in downtown Ft. Worth.
Executive Producer – “Chasing Life – The Grammy Man Story”
Audio Forensic Expert Witness for Civil and Criminal cases in a court of law.
The Daily Wire – 2021 – Post Production mixing for “The Morning Wire” a daily publication of news from around the world.
Currently working as Technical Director for live 4 hour radio show “Cruise Control” a talk radio show about the automotive industry on KLIF 570 AM radio on Saturday mornings.
Currently IEM monitor engineer for Bethesda Community Church (Ft. Worth)
Currently teaching audio post production online for Media Tech Institute- Dallas Texas
Currently teaching recording, mixing, and live sound for Weatherford College – Weatherford Texas.
List of Live Performance Artist
Aaron Watson
Bart Crow
Brandon Rhyder Brison Bursey Charlie Robison Cody Wayne
David Fenley
Earl Thomas Conley Four On The Floor Holy Hell Rod James Lann
Johnny Cooper Kevin Fowler Lauren Alexander No Justice
Randy Rogers Restless Heart
Ft. Worth Jazz Orchestra Billy Jo Shaver
Brantley Gilbert
Casey Donahew Chris Knight Corey Morrow
Derek Sholl
Eli Young Band Gary P. Nunn
Honey Browne Jason Boland Josh Abbott
Kyle Park Mark Chesnutt
Perfect Stranger Reckless Kelly
Rich O’Toole
Rob Baird
Roger Creager
Ryan Beaver
Sean McConnell
The Bellamy Brothers Wade Bowen Midnight River Choir Max Stallings
Tejas Brothers
Robert Earl Keen Ronnie Milsap Walt Wilkins
Stoney LaRue Turnpike Troubadours Whiskey Meyers
Zane Williams
Poco
Luke Wade
Will & Crystal Yates
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS.
NATALIE MCFARLAND

PRESIDENT, FOUNDER
MCFARLAND PRODUCTIONS
After freelancing her way through college, Natalie established McFarland Productions in 2014, which has continued to grow rapidly over the last few years. Her passion and focus have always remained the same; capturing, understanding, preserving and promoting Ranching, Farming, Western Lifestyle and AgriBusiness. She has always had a love for the western culture and even at a young age it was unmistakably clear she would someday find a career serving the industry.
Natalie grew up on a small ranch, rodeoed, showed horses in a variety of disciplines, showed livestock, and participated in 4H and Oregon High School Equestrian Teams. She has trained herding dogs and started colts, worked with sheep and cattle and has had the experience of racing to finish up a hayfield before a rainstorm hit. She understands the joys, sorrows, wins, losses and hard work of ranchers and farmers. That’s why McFarland Productions can produce authentic marketing campaigns for the businesses, organizations, events, and brands of the western and agriculture industry – it’s who she is.
With a passion for building community surrounding brands, Natalie focuses on building real connections between companies/brands and the people that make up their community. Telling the stories of your customers and making them apart of the brand’s story is her main focus. Creating real, human, meaningful connections and strengthening community within the western and agriculture industry through strategic marketing services.
SCOUT FOSTER

DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC STORYTELLING
MCFARLAND PRODUCTIONS
Scout’s faithfulness to the agriculture and western sports industry is rooted in tradition. Growing up in Central Florida, she stood by her family as they supported different sectors of the industry, including raising beef cattle, bucking bulls for local rodeos, and spending weekends with her grandparents who lived on Disney’s Wilderness Preserve.
Moving away from The Mouse, Scout graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Nation’s top agricultural communications college at Texas Tech University in 2022.
Now residing in Crockett, she and her husband, Lane, keep busy raising beef cattle and bucking bulls with her family. Scout also loves gardening, raising chickens, reading, and her two dogs: Rue and Dill.
